'Purple Passion' by Marlene Wilson [framed art, 16" x 20"]

Born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, Marlene Wilson, is a self-taught artist who started painting in 1993. You can say it was in her genes. Although she comes from a family of artists, Marlene never considered herself to be an artist. She began to dabble in watercolors and other mixed-media giving her paintings to family and friends for holidays and special occasions. Eventually, she discovered that they were coveting the art like treasures.

In 2002, Wilson was diagnosed with breast cancer. She embraced this life changing diagnosis with purpose and passion. It inspired her and art became her therapy. The notable absence of greeting cards depicting her African American/Hispanic heritage compelled Wilson to create cards and art that depicted people of color.

Artist Statement: Inspiration through imagination. My thoughts become words, my words become my art: therefore, each piece I create is given life through the colors and images of hope, strength, love and family. The title of each piece depicts a past or present phase I've gone through. The bold colors I use project the depth of my emotion. Whether it is the Angel series which brings me calmness to the intensity of the color red which makes my faceless images breath life. These images can be anyone or everyone in my heart. My thoughts and experiences keep me excited about the next piece of art to come alive. My art is my therapy and the very essence of my soul.