Sharon Gates Biography

Sharon Gates, a native of Alabama, is an award-winning artist, instructor, and photographer.  She began painting in oils 23 years ago then studied watercolor after moving to the Gulf Coast.  Sharon fell in love with the creativity and free flowing nature of watercolor which led her to acrylics, ink and experimental techniques such as collage, layering, etc.  That new found freedom became more and more evident in her oil paintings.  As a multi-media artist, she now lets the subject matter dictate which media is best suited to the task at hand.

Although she has a degree in Education, Sharon's art studies began with a local art teacher.  Over the years she has studied with some of the best master painters in the country:  Don Andrews, Stephen Quiller, Barbara Nechis, M. Stephen Doherty, Frank Francese, Edward (Ted) Minchin, Mary Ann Beckwith, and Patti Brady, to name a few.  She is also inspired by the Impressionists, Post Impressionists, and modern day experimental collage artists.  Sharon's paint-stained library of books and DVDs is extensive.

Sharon has been honored to receive awards and recognition including Signature status in the Watercolor Society of Alabama, serving as its President and membership chairman.  She is a member of various other painting societies as well.  Her teaching experience includes the Birmingham Museum of Art in Birmingham, AL, Eastern Shore Art Academy in Fairhope, AL, Forstall Art Center in Birmingham, AL, and private classes in her own studio as well as other venues.  She has also been invited to judge a number of art shows and exhibitions.  Sharon Gates's work is currently in private art collections throughout the United States.

Artist's Statement

My work is the expression of personal feelings and responses to light, color, paint properties, and the subject before me.  My subject matter may come from extensive travels to the Caribbean, France, Great Britain, or from my own backyard.  Because I work in oils, acrylics, and watercolors, I am considered a multi-media artist.  Having no favorites, I allow the subject and the effect I want dictate which medium to use.  I love it ALL!  Creativity is always my guide through the piece.

As an art teacher, my goal is to inspire and challenge students of all levels to creative and artistic expression.  I teach my students to see as an artist sees and I give them the tools with which to express their new found vision.  Whether new or experienced painters, I encourage students to stretch beyond their comfort zones.  My approach is relaxed and light hearted.  I believe a creative environment must be one of joy, an oasis from the world.  My philosophy?  

Paint from your heart, paint the best you know how, forgive yourself, and never stop learning.  Above all else, remember that there are no mistakes, only creative opportunities.

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