Judith Lavendar, also known as Judy Lavendar, is an American artist whose career spans over six decades. Born in Detroit, Michigan, during the early 1940s, she was raised on a horse farm, where her initial artistic endeavors involved drawing the horses around her. This early connection to equine subjects has remained a consistent theme throughout her work. Lavendar pursued her passion for art by earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Kentucky, studying under Frederick Thursz. She furthered her education with a Master of Arts in Art Therapy from George Washington University and an MFA from the Massachusetts College of Art and Design. Her studies also took her to the New York Studio School, where she worked with Carole Robb, immersing herself in the vibrant New York art scene. Throughout her extensive career, Lavendar has explored various mediums, including painting, mixed media, and sculpture. Her work often delves into themes of memory, perception, and the unconscious, resulting in pieces that resonate with psychological depth. Currently residing in St. Petersburg, Florida, she continues to create, drawing inspiration from her surroundings and personal history. At Drew Marc Gallery, we are honored to showcase two distinct series from Lavendar: an abstract collection from 1993 that seamlessly aligns with contemporary aesthetics, and a more recent representational series focusing on horses. Additionally, we will feature select works from various periods of her career, highlighting the evolution and timelessness of her artistic vision. Artist Statement:“My artistic journey is deeply rooted in the interplay between memory, perception, and reality. Growing up on a horse farm in Kentucky, horses became my earliest subjects, appearing in my childhood art before the typical family representations. This connection has endured, influencing my current work, which often features equine forms. In my creative process, I may start with a photograph, a specific memory, or a conceptual idea that evolves as I engage with my materials. Sometimes, a prompt—like an old photo or a piece of writing—guides the development of a piece. My background in art therapy informs my exploration of the inner workings of people, leading me to describe myself as a ‘psychological realist.’ My goal is to entice viewers into the work, hoping their experience transcends initial expectations. I believe the world is constructed not only of tangible data but also of perceptions, memories, and unconscious elements, culminating in one’s unique view of reality. Through my art, I aim to capture this complex tapestry, inviting viewers to reflect on their own perceptions and experiences.”