Today we’d like to introduce you to Silvia Thornton.
Silvia, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My father was an artist who studied painting after World War II using his GI Bill as he convalesced from the injuries that would affect him for the rest of his life. He used his skills as opportunities arose, even painting sandwiches boards for Barnum & Bailey Circus, bus as happens to so many, he was not able to use his art to provide for the family. He was a huge influence on me, I treasure the books and one painting that have been passed down to me. I started my studies in the 80s and was subsequently awarded the Jean Urbeck Award nub the Le Society International Des Beaux Arts. I was the first American to be flown to Paris to receive the award. During my time there, after the review of my portfolio, was awarded the ‘Arts, Sciences, Literature Silver Medal’ . Additionally., I am a signature member of the National Watercolor Society and the International Society of Expermental Artists. I now work in mixed media, always trying to meld the visual aspect of art to the feeling aspect of our human experience.
For the last three years, I have worked on a series of mixed media paintings addressing The Secret War fought in Thailand, as the Vietnam war was raging. When I learned this war and the stories of its participants, I was inspired to do a series of 20 pieces which I’ve recently completed and I’m now sharing with the public.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Smooth road, I don’t know. It was hard work, but I’ve had a life doing what makes me happy and exactly what I want to . I worked with a partner painting large murals for many years. When that slowed down I switched to faux finishing. Always doing my own art. I had a couple good galleries during that time, but didn’t rely on them to pay the bills.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
The following is an interview that took place after I spent six weeks in Florence, Italy at the Santa Reparata International School of Art. It is accurate albeit a bit flowery.
As an experimental artist she selectively assembles and fuse images. She layers colors with papers, etchings and wax, creating a delicate blend into a cohesive whole. Whether it is realism, abstraction, or a combination of these styles, her fascination with the process allows the work to evolve, ignited by the creative undertaking and the artist’s soul.
“My imagery comes from the fascination or excitement with a person, place or object. I often create work influenced by encountering historical objects in new places.
One such example is the Angel Bridge in Rome built in 134 AD. I was so excited to be immersed in the ancient culture that produced so much influential art and architecture. To have the opportunity to stand on the banks of the river feeling the sun, smelling the water, viewing the bridge with ten Magnificent angel sculptures adorning it created an emotional attachment that inspired a whole series of work. This is a sensation that I have come to trust.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I’m an introvert and only child. I have a few close friends all artists. We frequently critique, talk art and support one another. I work well with people. I’ve collaborated with the murals and The Secret War series. It worked well. We are still lifelong friends.
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.silviathornton.com
- Instagram: silviathornton2023
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/silvia.thornton.1
Image Credits
Ruda Anderson
