$450

Katrina Lyon-Smith

Exhibition: 84th International Open Exhibition

Painting Width: 16

Painting Height: 16

Medium: Watercolor

My painting was inspired by a dance showcase put on by amateur dancers that I saw recently. I noticed how they were caught up in the joy of the dance itself. My painting was trying to capture that it wasn’t about the dancer’s skill but about the energy they brought to the dances. When people don’t feel judged for not being perfect, they can experience the simple pleasure in moving to music. I used primarily watercolor paints on watercolor paper to create this painting. I added gouache with the watercolor paints to create the layering and depth. I added a small amount of ink to help create a sense of movement and connection between the dancers. I hope my painting reminds the viewers to find joy in life and dance like nobody’s watching.