Erika James: In The Quiet

In her new mixed-media encaustic paintings, Erika James uses close observation of the natural world to create dreamlike landscapes shaped by light, shadow and fog. The works balance stillness and action so viewers will slow down and notice what is often overlooked. James returns to familiar scenes, such as a beach or a trail in the Columbia River Gorge, to notice changes. She says paintings are a form of shelter, “a way to step away from the constant noise of news and screens and focus on light, beauty and attention.” waterstonegallery.com