I find purpose and peace through the ordinary—ordinary people and things that come from an extraordinary Creator. My faith is the foundation that carries me through each day, and my drawing and painting are a form of prayer. Inspired by Ephesians 2:10, which reminds me that we are God’s masterpieces, I approach every portrait with a desire to capture not only the likeness but the very essence of the person before me.

 

My subject matter tends to be straightforward—single subjects or simple still lifes—but within that simplicity lies a deeper meaning that resonates with others. Though I may not be outwardly emotional, through my paintings my heart can sing, dance, weep, and find peace.

 

The people I paint, and the scenes I choose, are drawn from their stories. We all hold layers within our lives, and it is that complexity that compels me. In every piece, my goal is to reflect the beauty of life and master the elements of art—composition, form, edges, and color—with a particular love for the way light defines the form of a face, a flower, or even a vase.

 

I work primarily in oil, acrylic, graphite, charcoal, and occasionally pastel. The choice of medium informs the surface—whether gesso board, linen, canvas, or paper. Most of my paintings are executed alla prima, working directly and intuitively on the surface. Recently, my portraiture has evolved under the inspiration of artists like Steve Forster, where the process begins with graphite and charcoal drawings that capture likeness and are sealed before an ébauche of oil paint is applied. I then build layers with brushes, palette knives, oil sticks, brayers, and cold wax, seeking a freshness in mark-making that balances control with freedom. The works of Sargent and Schmid continue to inspire me, guiding my exploration of portraiture.

 

Creativity is a gift given by our Creator, and my art is my gift back to Him. It is not simply what I do, but who I am. Rooted in the concept of discipleship, I am committed to sharing my skills and knowledge through both individual and group instruction, helping others live fully in their creativity.

 

You can view my artwork in person at Lincoln Gallery in Loveland, Colorado, and learn more about my journey with art, faith, and creativity through the artist group I lead at Citipointe NoCo Church. For further inquiries, I can be reached at lisa@lisaduboisart.com.