Subtle’s Story

Introduction

Thank you for visiting this site; it’s wonderful to have you here. I am the artist behind Subtle Value Art.

Art is a necessity and a fundamental method of communication. It’s a mood shared, a gift given, a story told. When I create an artwork, I am trying to capture a sense of peace. My goal is to share that sense of peace with all of you (as many artists have done for me), because we all need to decompress now and then, even if just for a moment. My hope is that I can provide some form of that for you and those that you care about the most, whether that be through Forget-Me-Not Cards to express your various sentiments or through a larger artwork that can bring you moments of tranquility in your own home.

About Me

I guess I should continue by telling you a little bit about myself. I am actually a nuclear/electrical test engineer who, up to this point, has mostly used art as a method of surviving when times are tough. There is something soothing about losing oneself in the creation process, so that has always been my method of getting through this life, especially when life seems at its most insurmountable. I enjoy all kinds of art including drawing, painting, cross stitch, crochet, clay, and anything that involves producing something beautiful and/or useful with my own two hands. However, my absolute favorite art form is painting with watercolor…which I would not have known if not for a high school teacher that encouraged me to try the medium against all of my protests.

I am a military brat who has lived all over the United States with my favorite location being Alaska. I went to college for Nuclear Engineering, and moved away from my crazy family, who are very dear to me, in order to pursue a career as an engineer. I met the love of my life, and we adopted a precocious kitten and an obnoxiously cute corgi. I am pretty good at what I do and take pride in my work, but I long for my paint brushes and the calmness and sense of accomplishment that comes with the act of creating. For that reason, I am putting my passion to work by starting this small shop, so please be patient with me as I work out the kinks. My intent is to serve you the best that I can in the best way that I know how.

Thank you again for visiting, and I hope that you can find something that speaks to you.

So, why did I choose “Subtle Value Art” as the name for my art business?

I’ll let you know, just in case you’re curious.

My first reason is the nature of my favorite medium - watercolor. There are obviously various ways that watercolor can be used to create masterpieces, but my favorite method is utilizing its subtle nature to meticulously add one layer at a time. I build my paintings by adding the slightest amount of paint little by little, layer by layer. The difference is hardly noticeable until you eventually realize there’s something detailed with rich, vibrant color on the paper. I’ve found this is especially true for skin tones, which is why watercolor portraits are one of my favorite subjects.

My second reason is because I feel that phrase “subtle value” describes me as a person. I am not the flashy or outgoing type that stands out in a crowd. I have always been at my best when I’m the second in command, quietly listening, taking in information, and utilizing that information to work in the background. I am the technical backup to the outgoing one, the speaker, the charismatic leader, the face of the team. We are often told that being the leader is one of the most important traits that you can have to succeed in life. I am not saying that leadership is not valuable, as it most definitely is. However, it is something that’s already widely celebrated. I developed the name “subtle value” to pay homage to those that are more introverted, subtle, and quieter in nature. We also have profound value.