Andrea Traber

a b s t r a c t i o n s

painting is my life’s inspiration.  
through the act of being with an empty canvas
…the fullness of infinite possibility…
…not “knowing” where to go or what to paint…
my inspiration finds itself in this most liberating experience

As the energy, movement, color and stroke enter my psyche and leave through my mind, heart, arms, hands, fingers and brush, my soul finds itself in this opening.  I touch a place deep inside, far beyond any judgment or reason, safe from the harsh critique of self and other.   

I experience joy, love, anger, fear, hesitation, pain and glory—the full complement—and all are welcome.  In this refuge, the playful, colorful space, rich patterns and texture become their own, regardless of concept, perhaps pleasing to eye, heart and soul.   

I enjoy exploring color and movement creating rich drama and emotion.  I find inspiration in nature, such as the sky and air movement, earth and water, as well as emotional experiences familiar to all of us. 

I merely help the paint and canvas take form, conjuring its own inner beauty and peace.  In this emptiness of meaning, there is great freedom.  That others may experience delight in my work is truly an unexpected gift.

Bio

Andrea Traber is a mid-career artist based in the San Francisco Bay Area who has painted for over 25 years and made art since childhood. Her creative practice has run alongside a distinguished career as an architect and sustainability professional, and the two have always informed each other.

Working primarily in acrylic on canvas, Andrea is drawn to large format work, using broad brushes to produce a wide range of strokes, blends, and beautifully layered compositions. Her paintings are intensely evocative — rich with depth, drama, and emotion.

She has studied at the San Francisco Art Institute and California College of the Arts, and has worked with Bay Area artists Brenda Vanoni, Mel Prest, Pat Dintino, and Don Porcella. Her work has been shown in solo and group exhibitions throughout the Bay Area, and she welcomes commission work.