Helen Pappas

Clarksville, Maryland, USA

Biography

I am a native New Mexican. I grew up in a mixed cultural community of Native Americans, Hispanic, Mexican and 28 other ethnic groups including Italian, Chinese, Taiwanese, Indonesian, Swedish, German, Filipino, African, French and Greek. As an adult, I lived in Santa Fe, New Mexico where I was able to experience the unique light of the Southwest that brought artists, like Georgia O’Keeffe, from all over the world to paint. I am now actively involved in a multi-generational home in Maryland and visit my beloved Southwest family often.

My 35-year career as an educator encouraged my creativity and flexibility. It is now time to explore and apply the lessons of my life. I have continued my education with a variety of artists and attend many destination workshops that blend my love of culture and travel with my creative process.

Statement

I have always collected small objects, twigs, rocks, glass and “trash” as I travel through life. These objects are significant to my creative process because not only am I inspired by their textures, colors and shapes but also their energy. I seldom paint from a photograph or in plein-air but I always have my objects nearby for inspiration. The theme of nature and wonder develops slowly over many paintings. I enjoy working on wood panels, canvas and paper. My palette is usually bold filled with textures and many layers to build depth.The process of scraping, layering and sanding is physical and labor intensive. I search for the abstraction of the emotion that is developing. Watercolors, acrylics, oils, charcoal and objects from nature allow me to be free. Slowly the energy that connects me to a sacred place begins to appear. This interpretive process is part of my personal journey as well. Questioning, what should stay, what is important, what is the most important part of this painting, directs me to more self-clarity. I am in wonder of the possibilities and combinations of beauty. This process opens my heart to create something truly authentic.

My most recent series of work evolves from the travels, geographies and cultures I have experienced. Active volcanoes on Hawaii, ancient architecture of Spain and Italy and serene landscapes that capture nature’s vast welcoming vistas. The collected objects and I exchange energy. Sacred Energy, that I believe connects us all.