Shana Belknap

PAINTING, PHOTOGRAPHY / MAINE

I received my Bachelor's in Fine Arts at the Maine College of Art (MECA) as a ceramic sculptor.  The shapes and textures of found objects often inspired my ceramic forms, which I then used as still lives for paintings.  My work was about texture, form and color.

I also spent several years focusing on landscape painting.  I worked on-site and used snapshots to help finish the images in my studio.  I began to enjoy taking photographs as much as painting.

Many years later I began taking courses in medium and large format black and white photography at MECA.  I loved the texture and shapes that can be achieved with black and white, but I missed color.  I tried color photography but it wasn’t enough – I missed the act of painting.

I discovered by combining black and white photography and painting, I was able to create images neither could alone.  I approach each black and white photo as a canvas, slowly building up layers of oils to create subtle, luminous colors.  I then work with colored pencil to add texture and depth. 

My primary focus is Maine life and the abundant natural beauty that is found here.  Often I return to the same location to record changes in light and season.