Biography
Linda Stelling, an American abstract artist, masterfully manipulates residual images to spark a profound dialogue about the natural world. She skillfully translates this discourse into a rich palette of colors and dynamic shapes, employing a visual language that transcends traditional artistic boundaries. Stelling’s practice is not confined to painting alone; she also explores the realms of works on paper, clay, and installation, further enriching her exploration of the natural world and its nuances.
Early Life
Born into a lineage of creativity, Linda Stelling, the daughter of a craftsman and the granddaughter of two artists, spent her formative years in Wisconsin. Surrounded by the natural splendor of the land, she was deeply influenced by her mother, an accomplished gardener, who instilled in her a profound appreciation for the beauty of the world and a fervent desire to protect it.
Linda pursued her Bachelor of Fine Arts at the University of Milwaukee, Peck School of the Arts, where her artistic journey began to take shape. She then went on to earn her Master of Fine Arts from Claremont Graduate University, a pivotal period during which she delved into the interplay between Jungian philosophy, environmental stewardship, and the transformative process of painting. This academic foundation laid the groundwork for her distinctive approach to art, one that seeks to engage viewers in a profound exploration of nature, the psyche, and the artistic process.
Linda Stelling Artworks
Linda Stelling’s art is intimately tied to the earth, yet she eschews traditional materials in favor of discarded and unconventional elements. Renowned for her conservationist ethos, Stelling incorporates studio detritus into her paintings, sculptures, and other creations. This practice not only imbues her work with a unique texture and depth but also serves as a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of memory and the importance of sustainability. Through her art, Stelling breathes new life into forgotten things, inviting viewers to contemplate the interconnectedness of past, present, and future.
Artist Statement:
In my art, I allow the residues of images, to spark a dialogue through color and form. This process is shaped by my inclinations, creating a personal yet universal visual language. Perception is subjective and influenced by factors like mood, social climate, and personal upbringing.
I symbolize my profound connection to Mother Earth through the garden, a space of freedom and inspiration. Here, fantasy thrives, fueling my imagination.
The mother archetype, a constant presence in my work, embodies my upbringing’s roots. Surrounded by nature in the Midwest, I developed an affinity for intense color, which influences all parts of my work.
I explore my connection to Mother Earth and motherhood, manifesting as a tribute to nurturing forces. My art also investigates pure color, satisfying a deep-rooted curiosity and need for expression. Ultimately, it reflects the enduring influence of the maternal in nature and human experience.