“During the shutdown it was quite a challenge trying to predict what to paint. I guess the question for me was…what can I paint that will maybe help people feel hopeful and happy?”
Artist Amy Lay asks herself the important questions, as she prepares for her show with Mountain Trails Gallery in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. The new body of work certainly holds a strong message for all.
Regal, oil and charcoal, 48 x 60”
The forested, mountainous land of northeast Oregon is where Lay calls home, and it is continuously inspiring her artistic career. “I am very fortunate to live in a gorgeous and remote place which is full of wildlife and my nearest neighbor is out of visual range,” she explains. “I grew up here as well and now, having the chance to take my turn as guardian of this old homestead, it’s such a beautiful experience. My goal with this land is to let it become an irresistible attraction for wildlife and natural refuge.”
Between Two Roans, oil and charcoal, 48 x 60”
Lay’s oil and charcoal wildlife paintings for her upcoming show are testament to her ever-growing fascination with nature, and the empowering forces she has channeled to inspire people through this challenging time. “Looking at [my show collection],
I think I see determination and power—more animals on the offensive, on the rise and full of confidence,” Lay says.
Her themes seem to be soulful combinations of multiple species, both muted and strong compositions working together in each piece. Show piece Wapiti in Turquoise, depicting a stand-alone elk, is a great example of the powerful messages she employs. In addition, her loose style in combination with line, movement and bold color, make for quite the impact.
Wapiti in Turquoise, oil and charcoal, 40 x 30”
“If there’s a style that most often stops collectors and visitors in their tracks, it’s Amy’s,” says Mountain Trails Gallery owner Adam Warner. “Such an ethereal, subconscious feel that is undoubtedly expressionism in nature, but leaves no mystery as to what the subject might be. Really a perfect balance between worlds.” Collectors have also called Lay’s work, “a whimsical world for magnificent animals.”
Viewers can expect other masterpieces such as Between Two Roans, showing three horses standing together in front of a mountainous background. Their strong, direct stare is forceful and intoxicating, as if they know something we don’t. Lay’s unique style adds to the spirit of this piece and leaves you wanting more.
This powerful, yet whimsical collection will be on view August 19 through August 26, at Mountain Trails Gallery in Jackson, with a reception August 20, from 5 to 7 p.m.
Upcoming Show
Up to 20 works
August 19-26, 2020
Mountain Trails Art Gallery
155 Center Street
Jackson, WY 83001, (307) 734-8150
www.mtntrails.net
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