My paintings are the language I use to communicate the natural beauty of the landscape through the use of light and atmosphere. I want to capture the mood of the moment when I am outside painting,” says Colorado artist Sharon Abshagen. She never tires of looking for the light in the varied Four Corners region.
Sharon grew up in Longmont, Colorado, and has lived in Durango for the last 30 years. After receiving a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Ft. Lewis College with an emphasis in fiber art she spent the majority of her time weaving large tapestries and designing sweaters. Whenever the opportunity arose however, she would play with watercolors to add memories to her journaling of white water rafting trips and camping experiences. After joining the local plein aire painting group she realizes that her first love was oil painting. Sharon finds painting on location with friends so much more fun and exciting than spending hours in the studio designing. She hopes her love of the landscape comes through her paintings.
Sharon is a Signature member of the Plein Air Painters of Colorado, the Plein Air Painters of New Mexico, The Plein Air Painters of the 4 Corners, the Oil Painters of America, and the American Impressionist Society. She has shown her work in numerous exhibits and juried shows in the southwest winning many Best of Shows and awards. Her painting was featured on the cover of Southwest Airlines inflight magazine and has had numerous articles written about her work in various magazines. She teaches workshops in oil painting and has mentored many students.
