Artist Dianna Fritzler uses layers of oil and cold wax to create engaging abstract paintings. Find more of her portfolio by visiting her website.
![abstract oil and cold wax painting by Dianna Fritzler](https://www.artsyshark.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Steamin-Joe_-Oil-Cold-Wax-30_-x-30_.jpg)
“Steamin’ Joe” oil and cold wax, 30″ x 30″
Growing up in Wyoming gave me a deep appreciation for wide open spaces and western art. I didn’t formally study art in school, but instead majored in journalism at the University of Wyoming. But I would be in the darkroom at all hours of the day and night developing my black and white photography.
![abstract oil and cold wax painting by Dianna Fritzler](https://www.artsyshark.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Counting-in-my-Sleep_-Oil-Cold-Wax-36_-x-24_..jpg)
“Counting in my Sleep” oil and cold wax, 24″ x 36″
That was the beginning of my passion for art. Somehow, it rather accidentally morphed into painting over the years. At the age of twenty-five, I quit my public relations job and backpacked around the world for a year with a dear friend. Visiting every art museum and architectural site we could is what sealed my absolute desire to paint.
![abstract oil and cold wax painting by Dianna Fritzler](https://www.artsyshark.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Its-in-the-Journey-oil-and-cold-wax-24x36-1.jpg)
“It’s in the Journey” oil and cold wax, 24″ x 36″
An incredible artist from Grand Junction, Colorado took me under her wing, taught me how to paint from my heart and how to break art “rules” that didn’t work for me. I will forever thank her!
![abstract oil and cold wax painting by Dianna Fritzler](https://www.artsyshark.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Playground-Paradise_-Oil-Cold-Wax-30_-x-30_.jpg)
“Playground Paradise” oil and cold wax, 30″ x 30″
It has been nearly twenty years since my genesis as a professional artist. My art continues to change as I learn, explore and experience new journeys in my life. I primarily paint with cold wax and oil, which is like working with frosting. I even use some baking tools to apply and remove paint during this textural, multi-layered process.
![abstract oil and cold wax by Dianna Fritzler](https://www.artsyshark.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Dancin-in-the-Moonlight_-Oil-Cold-Wax-36_-x-36_.jpg)
“Dancin’ in the Moonlight” oil and cold wax, 36″ x 36″
Each painting begins with vibrant colors and wild mark-making. From there I edit, layer by layer, until I find a happy balance between excitement and calm.
![abstract oil and cold wax painting by Dianna Fritzler](https://www.artsyshark.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Tipping-Point_-Oil-Cold-Wax-12_-x-12_.jpg)
“Tipping Point” oil and cold wax, 12″ x 12″
While my color can be wild and free flowing, my compositions and shapes are much more controlled and defined.
![abstract oil and cold wax painting by Dianna Fritzler](https://www.artsyshark.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/City-Synergy_-Oil-Cold-Wax-16_-x-16_.jpg)
“City Synergy” oil and cold wax, 16″ x 16″
Often, my paintings will have ten to twenty-five layers of paint. Each layer offers the challenge of not only what to add, but what to take away.
![abstract oil and cold wax painting by Dianna Fritzler](https://www.artsyshark.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Windows-to-the-World_-Oil-Cold-Wax-36_-x-24_.png)
“Windows to the World” oil and cold wax, 24″ x 36″
I typically don’t start a painting with an idea of what I want it to be. I simply allow the shapes, colors, lines and space within each layer direct me where to go next. It’s quite a lengthy and fun dance we have!
![abstract oil and cold wax by Dianna Fritzler](https://www.artsyshark.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Peace-in-the-Confusion_-Oil-Cold-Wax-12_-x-12_.jpg)
“Peace in the Confusion” oil and cold wax, 12″ x 12″
My other absolute passion is teaching. I’m honored to be a faculty member at the Art Students League of Denver. I also teach numerous other workshops throughout the country. Constantly meeting new artists and sharing ideas, techniques and inspiration brings me great joy.
![abstract oil and cold wax painting by Dianna Fritzler](https://www.artsyshark.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Days-Like-This_-Oil-Cold-Wax-12_-x-12_.jpg)
“Days Like This” oil and cold wax, 12″ x 12″
I love working with people and have developed a mentoring arm of my business. Currently, I work with several artists/students around the country in a virtual format to help them grow in their creative endeavors. I’ll be expanding those mentorship opportunities in the very near future. I’m so thankful that I get to do what I love nearly every day—paint and play with other people! What could be better?!
Artist Dianna Fritzler invites you to follow her on Instagram, Facebook and Etsy.
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