ECVA - Judith Fritchman - Stories from the Road

Gifts for the Christchild

Conte Pencil on blue paper
18" x 20.5"
Drawing after "The Magi," Choir Wall, Cathedral of Notre Dame,
Chartres, France (before 1540)

Artist Statement:
"...to be is to become creative and bring forth the beautiful."
John O'Donahue

Since childhood, drawing and painting have been a continuing joy and challenge for me: how to capture the figures of children absorbed in play; that distant hillside enveloped in transforming light; a cluster of flowers fresh from my garden; the fleeting expression of a friend; or a new inspiration about a scriptural narrative? As these experiences stir my imagination, I am motivated to describe that moment of beauty to you, my viewer.

Many artists have gone before me in this pursuit, and in my studies of drawing and design, I have been delighted to learn from them. The principals of good design which provide the infrastructure for their works of art continue to endure and offer fresh incentive for my own personal expression. The decisions I make about composition, design, and color choices evolve from this inspiration, as well as from my own emotions, experiences, and memories.

Through these choices it is my hope that I can communicate to you the essence of that moment that kindled my imagination, and that your imagination will be engaged as well.