I am more than three decades into my second career as a painter – working previously as a pediatric registered nurse. I returned to university and completed a bachelor’s degree in fine art with an emphasis in painting. Painting, drawing, and the exploration of various media offer creative freedom while at the same time providing an endless journey toward an unknown destination, a true reflection of life. I begin each painting by applying a mark or color to the picture plane with physicality and energy. Gesture or movement provides emotion, life, and vitality to the painting. If the initial notes ring true, each subsequent mark adds resonance. The asymmetry that is inherent in the way I paint helps reflect the beauty of non-perfection. It mirrors the way we must all navigate life. Life is a mystery, most of which is hard to understand. Struggle provides growth and with growth comes a certain degree of harmony, which constantly needs to be challenged in a positive manner. My goal is to try to create a beautiful painting that the viewer can enter over and over and still find life and resolution on the picture plane. Ultimately, I’m trying to grasp the sheer potential of paint and color to be transcendent. Cathy Palmer