Pat Hitchens

Gossamer Delicacies
and Ethereal Images
Created with Silk Dyes
and Water Media Paints

I have a passion for the elegant serenity of nature. Whoever looks deeply into my art can feel my spirit. I have been told I have an Asian soul, and elements of that style inform my surroundings as well as my work.

I paint traditional watercolors as well as create images on silk with French dyes; both methods begin as a blank white sheet. Often images develop as the materials, colors and shapes speak to me. The blending of silk, ink and paint creates luscious results, which are difficult to reproduce with other methods.

I sometimes leave negative space. This is not leftover space, but rather intended space. It allows you, the onlooker, to project your imagination into the painting.

General Background

While I have been interested in art most of my life, it was my avocation as I devoted time to motherhood and education administration. I can now spend hours creating the images I love.

Over the years, I have participated in numerous art venues, including wildlife art, traditional watercolor, silk painting, Chinese art, and calligraphy. I have studied under many noteworthy artists, among them: Robert Bateman, Morton Solberg, Tony Angell, Bart Rulon, Adele Earnshaw, Lee Kromschroeder, Chang-Khee Chee, Lian Zhen, Karen Sistek, Sandra Kay Johnson, Susan Moyer and Kay Barnes.

Professional Organizations

Chinese Arts Society Northwest
Eastside Association of Fine Artists
Northwest Watercolor Society
Silk Painters International
Artist in Residence – Parklane Gallery