Artist Biography
Artist Biography of Elizabeth Craumer
My work constitutes a variety of pastel landscapes. I enjoy working in pastel versus oil because the colors are more intense. This medium is related closely to drawing but it becomes painting by the way color is applied to the paper. My style is distinctive because of its ‘Impressionistic’ feel. I do not physically blend the colors that I use; therefore, each color stands alone in the painting. The layering of pure color creates the visual blending.
My original influence was my mother who was always working on some kind of creative project. Whether it was painting, sculpting or refinishing furniture there was always something being created in our house.
I began taking private art lessons as a young teenager and participated in local art shows. My art skills were further developed by working toward and receiving a BFA from the Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore. There, I received a very solid background in drawing and painting. As an undergraduate, one of my favorite areas of study was lithography. Making limited-color lithograph prints helped clarify how values create form. Later, I went back to school and earned an M.S. in Art Education so that I could share my passion with others. I currently teach classes in and out of my studio.
Since moving to New Hampshire a few years ago, I have been inspired by the uniquely beautiful landscapes around me to create colorful pastel pieces. I have learned a lot by painting outdoors on location with the NH Plein Air group and becoming totally immersed in the environment in which I am working. One is forced to make quick, bold decisions because the light is always changing. Working from photographs provides me the artistic opportunity to select the lighting as well as the season. They give me a little more freedom to experiment with the color of the landscape.
Recently, I opened Creative Ventures Gallery and have joined with other talented painters to create a wonderful creative atmosphere. We are located in Miford, NH. Some of the comments we have received from visitors since we opened are things such as: ‘This is a hidden treasure”, ‘Wonderful variety of artists that are wonderful to work with’, and ‘Such a nice concept’. It is well worth the visit. We also have a variety of classes. Look at our website for current information – www.CreativeVenturesFineArt.com.
Memberships include Pastel Society of New Hampshire, New Hampshire Art Association and NH Plein Air. I am a past President of the Pastel Society of New Hampshire. The NOA Gallery at the Groton Inn in Groton, MA represents my work. My work can also be viewed at Creative Ventures Gallery in Milford and the Robert Lincoln Levy Gallery in Portsmouth, NH. Awards have been received through participation in juried indoor and outdoor shows around New England. I was featured in the Monadnock Magazine, the Bedford Journal, the Hippo and The Amherst Citizen.
I hope my technique and use of color translates my love of nature to you, the viewer. Please enjoy my impressions of the New England landscape. I can be reached at betsycraumer@comcast.net or creativeventures@comcast.net.
