Fusion
Painting by
Mary Diefenbach Duke & Priscilla Froelich
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Fusion: Oil and Watercolor
"In the heart of Kittitas County, where the landscape whispers stories of the seasons, we find ourselves immersed in the vibrant dance of nature. This exhibition, "Fusion: Oil and Watercolor," celebrates the unique artistic journey of two distinct painters—one a watercolorist, the other a skilled oil painter. Through our scheduled plein air paint-outs, we embrace the unpredictable beauty of the outdoors, painting under the varying whims of weather, whether it’s a brisk 40 degrees, a gentle breeze, or the warmth of a sunny day. Our artistic practices, though rooted in the same scenes, diverge in technique and expression. The watercolorist captures the fleeting moments of light and atmosphere with delicate washes and fluid strokes, creating ephemeral impressions that reflect the transience of nature. In contrast, the oil painter builds depth and texture through rich, layered strokes, creating bold statements that invite viewers to experience the landscape in a visceral way. While we share a passion for the outdoors and a commitment to our craft, our work serves as a testament to the beauty of individuality in artistic expression. Each piece in this exhibition showcases our unique interpretations of similar subjects, revealing how different mediums can evoke distinct emotions and experiences. In this fusion of oil and watercolor, we invite you to explore the diverse perspectives that emerge from our shared love of the landscape. Together, we celebrate not only our differences but also the beauty of collaboration and connection that art can foster, all while capturing the essence of Kittitas County’s breathtaking scenery. Join us on this artistic journey as we honor the fusion of our mediums and the natural world that inspires us." -P.F. & M.D.D. |
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Priscilla Froelich
"Priscilla Froelich is a dynamic watercolor artist known for her diverse subject matter and loose brushwork. While she finds inspiration in the natural world, her artistic repertoire extends far beyond flowers, capturing the essence of landscapes, and human subjects with equal passion.
Priscilla discovered her love for painting early on but put it on hold to prioritize raising a family. However, her creative spirit never waned, and upon returning to her art, she found herself drawn to the vibrant community of painters in Kittitas County.
Priscilla's commitment to growth is evident in her dedication to continued education. She regularly attends workshops and online classes, constantly refining her skills and exploring new techniques to push the boundaries of her artistry.
Priscilla's support for artistic development extends beyond her own practice. She fosters a sense of camaraderie within the artistic community and enjoys helping others grow in their creativity.
Priscilla's paintings are characterized by loose strokes and a lively energy that reflects her zest for life and art. Through her work, she invites viewers to see the world through her eyes – vibrant, dynamic, and full of endless possibilities."
Priscilla discovered her love for painting early on but put it on hold to prioritize raising a family. However, her creative spirit never waned, and upon returning to her art, she found herself drawn to the vibrant community of painters in Kittitas County.
Priscilla's commitment to growth is evident in her dedication to continued education. She regularly attends workshops and online classes, constantly refining her skills and exploring new techniques to push the boundaries of her artistry.
Priscilla's support for artistic development extends beyond her own practice. She fosters a sense of camaraderie within the artistic community and enjoys helping others grow in their creativity.
Priscilla's paintings are characterized by loose strokes and a lively energy that reflects her zest for life and art. Through her work, she invites viewers to see the world through her eyes – vibrant, dynamic, and full of endless possibilities."
Mary Diefenbach Duke
“My work has come full circle.
The day I was born in Hawaii, my Dad was serving as an officer on a destroyer ship in the pacific. Completing his military duty, we returned to the farm where he took up the tractor, shovel, hard work, and dreams from which he carved out fields of plenty in the Kittitas Valley. This is where and how I was raised.
In 1993 my dad commissioned me to paint a scene from our valley for each of my seven siblings, many of the structures depicted in these paintings are now gone. The fields have become orchards, home sites, or solar farms. Having lived, raised a family, and owned a business in Snohomish for 30 hears, coming back to the Kittitas Valley allowed me a new purpose and intention to my painting.
Focusing on oil painting, my original favorite medium, and following my intuition, a deep sense of impetus has taken hold to express my vision of what I witness in our daily life, My creative process is activated by an instant in time and place, and before the brush touches the canvas my interest has been captured, and the story of what will be painted unfolds. I begin plein air, sketch with notes and take photos. It all comes to fruition in the studio. With birch panels as my surface, and employing color, texture, and painterly marks, I am able to clarify my concept.
The underlying goa is to capture the beauty and significance of my environment and to record the seasonal events that occur.
I am gratified when my audience finds their own story within mine, or perhaps the painting simply informs them. For me, That’s the sharing piece to art.
An Exciting work being developed will depict the “Rhythm of the Farm”, specifically my parents’ and grandparents who homesteaded here. Sound and video are being investigated as additional components alongside paintings depicting winter rests, spring preparations, summer growth, and fall bounty.
Truly that will complete my circle. "
The day I was born in Hawaii, my Dad was serving as an officer on a destroyer ship in the pacific. Completing his military duty, we returned to the farm where he took up the tractor, shovel, hard work, and dreams from which he carved out fields of plenty in the Kittitas Valley. This is where and how I was raised.
In 1993 my dad commissioned me to paint a scene from our valley for each of my seven siblings, many of the structures depicted in these paintings are now gone. The fields have become orchards, home sites, or solar farms. Having lived, raised a family, and owned a business in Snohomish for 30 hears, coming back to the Kittitas Valley allowed me a new purpose and intention to my painting.
Focusing on oil painting, my original favorite medium, and following my intuition, a deep sense of impetus has taken hold to express my vision of what I witness in our daily life, My creative process is activated by an instant in time and place, and before the brush touches the canvas my interest has been captured, and the story of what will be painted unfolds. I begin plein air, sketch with notes and take photos. It all comes to fruition in the studio. With birch panels as my surface, and employing color, texture, and painterly marks, I am able to clarify my concept.
The underlying goa is to capture the beauty and significance of my environment and to record the seasonal events that occur.
I am gratified when my audience finds their own story within mine, or perhaps the painting simply informs them. For me, That’s the sharing piece to art.
An Exciting work being developed will depict the “Rhythm of the Farm”, specifically my parents’ and grandparents who homesteaded here. Sound and video are being investigated as additional components alongside paintings depicting winter rests, spring preparations, summer growth, and fall bounty.
Truly that will complete my circle. "
Opening reception:
First Friday November 1st, 5-8pm.
Then open Saturdays 12-4pm in November, 2024.
Demonstrating Artists:
Saturday, November 16, 2024
At The Palace Gallery
from 1-3pm
Mary Diefenbach Duke and Priscilla Froelich present:
“PULLING THE CURAIN BACK ON PLEIN AIR PAINTING”
Demonstrations, Methods, Discussion and Ethos of Painting Out of Doors.
This free event is for everyone interested in all forms of painting and/or seeking to learn more about plein air painting generally. Demonstrations will focus on oil and watercolor painting techniques and methods along with in-depth discussion with the artists.
Show up in person to The Palace Gallery at 1pm-3pm and grab a seat.
210 W. 4th Ave., Suite x (upstairs) Ellensburg, WA
Saturday, November 16, 2024
At The Palace Gallery
from 1-3pm
Mary Diefenbach Duke and Priscilla Froelich present:
“PULLING THE CURAIN BACK ON PLEIN AIR PAINTING”
Demonstrations, Methods, Discussion and Ethos of Painting Out of Doors.
This free event is for everyone interested in all forms of painting and/or seeking to learn more about plein air painting generally. Demonstrations will focus on oil and watercolor painting techniques and methods along with in-depth discussion with the artists.
Show up in person to The Palace Gallery at 1pm-3pm and grab a seat.
210 W. 4th Ave., Suite x (upstairs) Ellensburg, WA