About

Dawn Petrill

Artist Statement

In the evolution of my artistic journey, a pivotal moment occurred when I found myself growing discontented with the confining square edges of traditional canvases. It was during this period of frustration that the seeds of inspiration for my current body of work were born, becoming what I now refer to as my "Earthscapes Series."

In this series, I embarked to transcend the limitations of two-dimensional canvases by crafting multiple planes using organically shaped pieces of wood. These panels are then cut and strategically spaced above the various planes by drilling holes and using dowel rods and sponge-like spacers. The result is a union of layered planes and intricately placed components to draw the viewer into an immersive experience. The deliberate interplay encourages the observer to traverse the artistic landscape, exploring the relationships between form and space.

An additional element is incorporating embedded objects and textures within the layers of paint. The inclusion of these hidden nuances serves as an invitation for the viewer to actively seek and discover the subtle details woven into the fabric of the artwork. Through these approaches, I encourage viewers to engage with my work on multiple levels- initially appreciating the piece in its entirety before delving into the intricacies that emerge upon closer inspection.

 Bio

Dawn is a 1995 graduate of the Cleveland Institute of Art and received a MALS from Wesleyan University in 2003.  She began her artistic career as a freelance illustrator, then took a break from art to raise her 3 kids- her oldest being diagnosed with Autism at the age of 3.  When her youngest child was about to enter Kindergarten, Dawn set up her fine art business, Art At Dawn LLC.  Now 12+ years later, Dawn has a thriving business where she paints and exhibits her work both locally and nationally.  She also teaches art classes at the Delaware,OH Arts Castle and adults of early onset dementia through the Central Ohio Alzheimer’s Association.  Dawn is a member of the Dublin Area Art League, Ohio Art League, Collage of Women artists, and the National League of American Pen Women.

You can also find Dawn’s work on her Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/ArtAtDawn

                                                       Instagram: www.instagram.com/artatdawn

                                                       Contact her: artatdawn123@gmail.com