The force of nature and the serene surroundings of my home studio overlooking Beaver Lake in Northwest Arkansas serve as daily inspiration for my work. Through the simplicity of abstract forms, shapes and textures I seek to create impactful compositions that celebrate beauty and invite the viewer to explore ideas about the intangible, the contemplative and spiritual influences of the natural world.

A graduate of Wichita State University, in Kansas, Ruth holds a Master of Arts in Education. After many years of teaching art in public schools and universities she is now a full time artist exhibiting her work in several states and private and corporate collections. Ruth lives and maintains a studio at her home on Beaver Lake near Garfield, Arkansas.

RJ Lawlor Contemporary Art with Black and White Acrylic Painting.jpg

Black and white resonates with me

The phrase ‘less is more’ rings true for me. When I create I think in terms of purity of design. The elimination of unnecessary distractions leads me to rely on line and shape as primary communication tools. I am always thinking about how to make use of design elements to express an idea.

Design is what make a piece eye-catching and dynamic, or calm and soothing.

Artists who have influenced and inspired me:

I have many favorite artists including Ellsworth Kelly, Alma Thomas, Mark Rothko, Ruth Asawa, Franz Kline, Robert Motherwell, Adolph Gottlieb and so many more.

Artist Alma Thomas is an inspiring role model to me not only for her lengthy career as an art teacher and her dedication to art education, but also for her decision to pursue a new career as an artist later in life. She began painting earnestly at the age of 69, demonstrating that it's never too late to chase one's dreams.

 

My home studio is nestled in the Ozark Mountains on Beaver Lake where there is an abundance of inspiration.