New Paintings

Asheville Gallery of Art will feature the work of Elinor Bowman during August 2015.

Her show, “New Paintings,” will reflect her exploration of the nature of watercolors. “I’m currently enjoying working with varied subject matter, as well as seeing how watercolor behaves (or doesn’t),” Bowman says. Some paintings using acrylic will also be included in the show.

For the past several years, Bowman has focused on painting or drawing live models in watercolor and ink. As she works, she says she can see something of the persona of the subject emerge on the page. “Right now, for me, watercolor is the most interesting medium. I like the process, not always being able to predict how the painting will turn out.”

After a career in business, she began painting in 1996, first in art-process sessions, then taking lessons in oil painting. Bowman says of her art, “Growing up, I never imagined I would become an artist. I’m fascinated by how you can portray three dimensions in two.” When she moved to Asheville in 2002, she studied at the Fine Arts League of Asheville, where the emphasis was on classical methods of portraiture and figure drawing. Bowman has also studied with several teachers, and participated in numerous workshops.

If You Go: New Paintings by Elinor Bowman will run August 1 through 31, 2015. The public is invited to the opening reception on Friday, August 7 from 5 to 8 p.m., where they can view Bowman’s work as well as the works of the 27 other gallery artists. Asheville Gallery of Art, 16 College Street in downtown Asheville. Gallery hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Sunday 1 to 4 p.m. Contact the gallery at (828) 251-5796, or visit www.ashevillegallery-of-art.com.