BETTY SCHOPMEYER

Abstract Painting

I began to paint about twelve years ago, taking classes to learn about color theory and much more. I had never painted before, so for me it was a completely new experience that turned out to be transformative. Over time, my paintings have become less about what I see and more imagination-driven, reflective of my own ideas and interpretations.

My Weavings paintings evolved through consideration of the grid—a stable underpinning that evokes the most immutable aspects of life, but then diverges to portray natural change, unexpected developments, and sometimes chaos. From grids, I have recently begun to explore more forms of non-representational art—abstraction of natural objects, patterns, and perspective. Letting go of realistic forms has led to a greater emotional investment in my works. It enables me to feel and think more clearly about my paintings. I hope that comes through to viewers.

My background is not at all art-related, although I have been a dedicated crafter, knitter, and stitcher all my life. I am by education a Speech-Language Pathologist, working in aspects of that field for over 30 years. Most recently I worked as Education Director and Grants Writer at Penobscot Marine Museum in Searsport. After growing up and raising three children in the Washington, DC area, I moved to Maine 25 years ago. I love the small town life: the strong sense of community, the many accessible opportunities for creative expression, and the overlapping circles of acquaintanceship that we all enjoy.