Joanna Burch
As an artist, I often reflect on why we are drawn to certain subjects and how our
personal vision shapes the way we present them. Art is such an individual
expression—our interests, perspectives, and the elements we wish to highlight
vary greatly. Some artists may focus on subject matter, while others are inspired
by color, lighting, or even the vantage point from which a subject is viewed.
For me, inspiration often begins with patterns. Whether they emerge through
colors, repeating shapes, or the rhythm of lines, such as interwoven branches,
patterns captivate me. When composing a piece, I strive to ensure that not only
the primary elements but also the negative spaces (background shapes) hold
visual interest. These elements must work together to create harmony in the
composition.
Realism is the foundation of my work, and I currently use oils, watercolors, and oil on porcelain. Recently, I’ve revisited colored pencils, which has added new layers to my practice. I paint all subjects except landscapes, finding endless inspiration in the interplay of forms and details.
My journey as an artist began early in life. With a strong foundation in the arts fostered by my family, I was lucky to have my parents' encouragement. My mother once submitted one of my crayon drawings to a Superman coloring contest hosted by a local newspaper. To my surprise, I won—and that became the spark that ignited my passion for art.
Looking back, I feel deeply grateful to pursue a career in something I love. Being an artist is both a gift and a blessing. Every piece of art is a contribution to the wider dialogue of creativity, and each of us brings a unique perspective to that conversation.
