Layers and Transparancies: The work of Elisabeth Hudgins

Artist Elisabeth Hudgins

"In starting a painting, often I begin with a story to tell, but sometimes the story emerges from the artwork." So says Elisabeth Hudgins, whose work was showcased in the gallery this month as our Featured Artist. "My most recent work consists of mixed-media paintings which are an exploration of my imagination and creative process, " says Elisabeth. "Sometimes, the story is elusive. My process involves working with layers, transparencies and double exposures by utilizing collage, photo transfers, paint, found objects, and monoprinting in my artwork. As I build up layers, earlier surfaces sometimes disappear, like memories, layered beneath fresh elements. At times, I peel away top layers to reveal what is underneath, and find what was lost. Visual elements often found in my artwork include: leaves, trees, portraits of people, quilts and fabrics and threads. Much of my work seeks to bridge the gap between the modern and the nostalgic."

"Shelter" mixed media by Elisabeth Hudgins

Elisabeth has done a number of works,culminating in several solo shows,  in which she has incorporated old photos of people and houses. These mixed media works - which incorporate acrylic, watercolor and collaging - have a wonderful nostalgic, generational "found in the attic" quality to them.

Elisabeth’s art journey started at a young age. Inspired by her artist grandmother, Elisabeth earned her BFA at James Madison University and was a Graphic Designer and Art Director.  Later, feeling the need to reconnect with her creativity, she began painting again. This part of the journey has taken her from representational watercolor paintings, to mixed media studies that are more exploratory.

"Dragonfly" mixed media by Elisabeth Hudgins 

"I enjoy the whimsical nature of depicting bugs, fish, cats, dogs and other animals," says Elisabeth of her animal and insect works.  "When I teach art to children, I always include a lesson on painting animals, since there is a universal appeal!  All these mixed media pieces are depicted with many layers of paint and paper, and sometimes a surprise element such as thread, maps and even insect wings!  Trained as a watercolor artist, I maintain my love of transparency, and being able to see through layers of elements.  Now, as a more experimental painter, I enjoy seeing what happens when I make "homemade" papers, which I then use in collage.  My goal is for my artwork to maintain that spontaneous and transparent quality.  I also try and strike the balance between the modern and the nostalgic.”

"Vernal Impressions," acrylic by Elisabeth Hudgins

Another subject matter Elisabeth returns to often are scenes of nature. Trees and leaves are particular favorites. She often uses bright hues to portray cherry blossoms and other flowering trees.

In addition to being a Gallery Underground member artist, Elisabeth's artwork has been also featured in Elan Magazine and regularly shown in the Art League Gallery at the Torpedo Factory and at Stifel &Capra in Falls Church. Her paintings have been accepted into many juried shows, and won awards, including several First Prizes. She has exhibited her work in solo and group shows throughout the state of Virginia. Her most recent solo show was "Lost & Found" at Stifel & Capra in Falls Church, VA. This year, 25 of her pieces were included in an invitational show in the Atrium Gallery, Takoma Park entitled "Dichotomy: A Play of Opposites". Elisabeth accepts commissions, and her work can be found at ElisabethHudgins.com.

-- Sandi Parker, Gallery Underground Co-Director