Spiritual Expressions of the Untamed West, by Shirle Wempner
Shirle Wempner was raised on a horse ranch on the outskirts of Billings, Montana. Her experiences growing up on the ranch resulted in a great appreciation of nature and encouraged her to put to canvas the inspiration she experienced on a day to day basis. Working predominately in oils and utilizing broad-brush strokes and palette knife techniques, she creates a feeling of impressionistic realism, concentrating on a painterly representation of the subject matter. Wempner has challenged her imagination and experimentation with her art, and continues to rediscover the creative process with each new piece. The subject matter that interests her is wildlife, western and figurative representations, as well as incorporating contemporary and historical themes into her paintings.
Wempner says, “The most enjoyable aspect of my process is allowing the creative spirit to take shape on the canvas. I strive to connect with the viewer and ask them to participate in the visual completion of the subject matter by ‘implying’ the subject rather than rendering a more detailed result. This, I believe, draws the viewer into the painting and allows them to more fully participate in the essence of the piece. Emotions are what touch and form our souls, and a stirring of emotion is what I strive for in each piece I create.”
Big Timber artist Shirle Wempner has work in numerous galleries, been published in magazines and a participant in exhibitions and auctions throughout the region.
Meet the artist during a Closing Reception on Sunday, August 29, 2021 from 1-3 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided.
This exhibition is organized by the Carbon County Arts Guild & Depot Gallery which is supported in part by grants from the Montana Arts Council, the Coal Tax Trust Fund for Cultural and Aesthetic Projects, and the National Endowment for the Arts.
The Carbon County Arts Guild & Depot Gallery provides access to art, supports artistic expression, and encourages creative experiences for the enrichment of our communities.
