Beauchamp’s Gallery to Feature Colorists Diane Lawrence and Debra Clemente

Fans of bright colorful artwork will see plenty to like in Beauchamp’s upcoming exhibit- New Works by Debra Clemente and Diane Lawrence. Both artists utilize bright pure color to inject energy and emotion into their paintings. Clemente applies heavy colorful oil paints on canvas with a pallet knife. Her works have a textural quality that seems to be influenced by the impressionists like Van Gogh. Lawrence applies thin layers of equally colorful pigments to delicate silk fabric. And though the color is just as striking, the surface quality of her work is much different than Clemente’s. Lawrence’s use of silk gives each painting a shimmering effect that is unique to the medium and a nice contrast to Clemente’s heavy oils.

For Clemente, much of her inspiration comes from the landscape. However, she is in no way focused on an exact interpretation of a particular scene. Rather, she is much more interested in using color to express the emotions that she feels. Similarly, Lawrence puts it this way, “Forms that radiate vibrant color energize my soul and lead me into a delightful journey into expression….” In the past, Lawrence’s focus has been florals and depictions of colorful Koi fish and this show has good examples of such work. However Lawrence, like Clemente, will also present a number of works influenced by the landscape.

New Works by Debra Clemente and Diane Lawrence can be seen at Beauchamp’s Gallery starting December 31, but an opening reception for both artists will take place on Friday evening, January 8th at the gallery. The public is invited.
Beauchamp’s is Topeka’s premier provider of original fine art, classic custom framing, art restoration/repair, and consulting. Located at 3113 SW Huntoon in the Westboro Mart, Beauchamp’s has been a mainstay of the Topeka arts community for over 35 years.