Amy Bates

ARTIST

   Hello! I am a multi-media artist, and I like to explore topics of internal experiences. I graduated with a Bachelor of Art degree in Studio Art from Eastern Washington University. My discipline area was in sculpture – contemporary sculpture, I would create large multi-media installations. I focus more on 2-dementional work now, but that influence is still there. After EWU, I found myself struggling with the ups and downs of life, as many of us do, making it difficult to progress with my art. I went back to school for nursing, which changed my life in so many ways. It challenged me and stretched me beyond what I ever thought I could do, but my health also started to deteriorate. That started a journey of perseverance and recovery, and a new passion for my art was ignited.

   For me, creating art is a way to communicate the unseen, to explore and bring into physical form swirling thoughts, emotions, and invisible experiences (such as pain and fatigue). It is also a way to explore and share the more mysterious side of life, and the joy of story telling. I delve into topics of mental and physical illness and health, and wish to express not only the areas of darkness, pain and loneliness, but also those of hope, resiliency and healing. The core of that hope and resiliency is my faith – which is also seen in my work. My goal is, by communicating my own experiences, I might be able to connect with and give encouragement to those facing similar challenges, and help bring awareness to these health issues. I also have work that is more illustration/fantasy based, and hope to bring a smile to anyone's face who enjoys a pumpkin stealing raccoon (part of my little critter series). 

My art business has been designated as a "Trusted Art Seller" with The Art Storefronts Organization, which means you can shop with confidence, and know that I stand behind the quality and value of my products.