Lisa Albinger

http://www.lisaalbinger.com

Statement

Born and raised in Wisconsin, I was brought up to do what I love and love what I do. I knew at age five my calling in this lifetime was to be an artist, so I diligently began focusing on that dream. As life unfolded I've been presented with many "off the beaten path" life experiences which have molded me into the well rounded, down to earth artist I am today. At age twelve I was told I had scoliosis and after spending nearly four years in a back brace I knew I had a story to tell.

I received my BFA from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 1999 and immediately began showing in galleries. In 2001 I discovered my own unique painting technique of using cotton swabs and paper towel to create my oil paintings. This unique brought me closer to my canvas, thus the creation process could be much more intimate. Since I don't plan out the paintings, I approach the canvas with a clear mind and let whatever image take form. With collage I incorporate actual items from my life, adhere them on canvas, and paint my story. Collage pieces range from playing cards to boxer shorts to flowers from Paul McCartney's dressing room, so anything is possible. This way I'm taking found everyday objects and giving them a second life as a part of a painting instead of taking up space in a landfill somewhere.

After five years of living in the Arizona desert I relocated to Portland, Oregon in 2007. My art is collected around the world by people just as quirky as I, people who dream of bright childlike fantasy worlds and get inspired when they see my paintings. My goodness, I think that tells me right there I'm doing what I'm meant to do.