Molly Hargarten

Artist’s Statement

To me, painting is like mashed potatoes; comforting, simple and earthy.  When I apply pure pigment to white paper, I am fed.   Contentment, groundedness and peace come to me, as with any good comfort food.  I also get pleasure from painting simplified, earthy and authentic subjects found in nature.

When I paint, I liken it to a runner’s path…there have been uphill struggles, easy down hill portions and a sense of satisfaction when the task is completed.  I strive to enjoy and embrace both the ease and struggles and hold close these words from the Buddhist Lojong teaching which say “Always maintain only a joyful mind.”  To me, this means, learn from each situation, whether it is positive or negative, and use these experiences to wake up and see the world around you with a happy, open mind.  I hope that my work portrays the happiness, joy and fun that I experience from life.

I often hear that when people look at my work, they experience a tug at their own hearts.  My hope is that they will witness my heart felt connection with nature and the world around me…to feel the warmth and spirituality that I experience, to fully notice and enjoy my love of color.

Nov. 6, 2005

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