“Within each canvas is an opportunity to explore relationships through shape and color. I consider how much territory a specific shape will occupy, whether it should expand perhaps overlapping neighboring shapes. Will these forms meet in a strong defined way or will the edges barely touch in delicate softness? The use of color opens yet another avenue for interplay of relationships. A bold orange painted next to an equally bold red will look and feel completely different than if paired with a muted yellow. Each color is influenced by those closest to it. In a sense each painting is either portrait or self-portrait. How am I affected by those closest to me and how do I influence them in return? I'm inspired by the American Abstract Expressionists, particularly the color fields of Mark Rothko and collages of Conrad Marca-Relli.” Wendy Westlake hails from the heartland of Minnesota where she lives with her husband while practicing her craft full time. Westlake has a background in gallery work and exhibitions. She has been the recipient of several independent awards, and her work has been featured in several group exhibitions since 2011.