Featured Artist P. K. Williams

Artist P. K. Williams creates mixed media abstract collages that explore themes of nature and personal memories. Visit her website to see more of her work.

 

abstract collage by P.K. Williams

“And So it Begins” mixed media collage on panel, 24″ x 24″

 

I first started working as a professional artist ten years ago, though I have always been an artist at heart. As a child, I consistently signed up for art classes whenever they were offered. To me, a box of shiny, new, sharp crayons was better than gold.

 

abstract collage by P.K. Williams

“It Starts With the Ocean” mixed media collage on panel, 24″ x 24″

 

My father introduced me to the art world by showing me work by his favorite artists. He told me stories about the artist’s life or stories behind their work. I also spent countless hours sitting on his knee as he drew his little cartoon creations and taught me how to recreate them.

 

abstract collage by P.K. Williams

“Mom’s Best” mixed media collage on panel, 18″ x 18″

 

My parents encouraged me to further my skills and pursue my interest in art. They gave me drawing books and art supplies as birthday or Christmas gifts.

 

abstract collage by P.K. Williams

“Primordial Paradise” mixed media collage on panel, 24″ x 24″

 

While attending college, I took art classes but my goals had changed. I pursued a degree in education, which was another passion of mine. Teaching was my first career and I stayed in that profession for several years. Ten years ago, we moved to New Mexico. I had the opportunity to trade my chalkboard for a canvas, so I did! I took some refresher workshops and was on my way.

 

abstract collage by P.K. Williams

“Grown Ups” mixed media collage under expoxy resin on panel, 12″ x 12″

 

When I first began to create art full-time, my work was realistic. Over time, it has evolved into something different. I now paint from the heart and my inner intuition rather than reference material, although realistic elements do appear periodically.

 

abstract collage by P.K. Williams

“Terrestrial Paradise” mixed media collage on panel, 24″ x 24″

 

I’ve worked on many different series while exploring my abilities, various media and techniques. Additionally, elements from nature continue to appear in my work.

 

abstract collage by P.K. Williams

“Roots on the Rebound” mixed media collage under epoxy resin on panel, 12″ x 12″

 

My most current series, Roots, is closest to my heart. In this series I combine two things in my life that are of great importance to me—nature and family. In this series, I explore the idea of roots or beginning—the beginnings in my own life and in those of all humankind.

 

Artist P.K. Williams in her studio pouring epoxy resin

Artist P.K. Williams in her studio pouring epoxy resin

 

I’ve learned many different techniques throughout my career, and have experimented with a combination of these varied techniques. My newest work is a synthesis of all these processes. I’ve created these pieces incorporating everything from paper staining to adding rust, epoxy resin or even cyanotypes.

 

abstract collage by P.K. Williams

“Mom’s Coffee Cake” mixed media collage on panel, 18″ x 18″

 

I relish the idea of creating these unique “new-vintage” pieces and incorporate collage along with paper excavation, paint layering, sanding and glazing. The effect of these combined processes is exactly what I have strived to achieve during my short, ten-year career as an artist. I will continue to use a combination of these techniques as I explore other subjects.

 

abstract collage by P.K. Williams

“Sweet Memories” mixed media collage on panel, 18″ x 18″

 

I used to worry about not having a distinct “style” but have now allowed myself the freedom to explore and experiment using a variety of media. I’m excited to have developed the ability to create something new and exciting based on my memories, experiences and emotions. Since I do put so many of my personal connections, experiences and renderings into my work, my goal is to have the viewer appreciate the piece based on their personal interpretations and connections.

 

Artist P.K. Williams invites you to follow her on Facebook, Instagram and on the New Mexico State Committee of the National Women in the Arts site.

 

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Comments

  1. Lovely article; I enjoy the memories into art process myself, although my work is very different I sense a comradeship (and such very nice work you have!).

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