Clouds and sky are my inspiration in art. I love the big sky country out west which I was first introduced to at the age of 25. I was a Rhode Islander, and never traveled beyond New England when I moved to AZ. The trip out west was an adventure and as we approached Texas the sky just opened up, and I felt like I was transported into another realm. I never knew there was that much sky! The earth and everything on it suddenly seemed very small. To this New Englander who grew up on the ocean, this was an amazing experience.
I’ve always loved the ocean, and from the time I was a child my father had me out sailing the sea with him and my sister on his little Towney, a small day sailer that he first learned on. It was an exhilarating adventure and one I’d never forget. So was my love of the sea established. Of course I was an avid swimmer and looking out at the endless ocean off the coast of Newport RI was my favorite pass time as a kid. But as a young adult, to be introduced to big sky country out west was a thrill I hadn’t even imagined.
I’ve come home to my childhood roots after spending many years out in the southwest and Midwest, but the impression of the majestic skies has left a permanent mark on the creative expression of my mind.
Here in this post I’d like to share with you some of the paintings I’ve been working on over the last year or so. They have a storm theme and as of late I’ve been fascinated by tornados, super cell thunderstorms and the beautiful skies they create. Having spent a short time in Oklahoma City last year, I was able to see some of the most interesting cloud formations I’ve ever witnessed and I have taken to my paint brushes and canvas to try to recreate some of those amazing clouds and storms.
There is something very exciting and mysterious about a storm rolling in, and I love the feeling that comes with the anticipation of a big storm. The wind picks up, and the breezes have a unique sound. The color of the sky changes as the storm gets closer and the house grows dark as you realize a force of nature is about to take place. Its majestic and exciting to see a storm blow through. I hope you enjoy some of my portrayals of a “Perfect Storm” in my imagination.
Sarah Hopkins Art 