While visiting Costa Rica, carrying my easel, paints, and canvas, I hiked a rocky trail down to this secluded waterfall each morning over three days, enjoying the beauty of the water rushing by while I painted. In Monterosso, Italy, I would ride the train a short distance from Riomaggiore each morning to paint this iconic seashore scene — then spend my afternoons reclining on one of those inviting beach chairs. While participating in Glacier National Park’s Plein Air Event in Montana, I enjoyed painting the incredible drama of the Sacred Dancing Cascades waterfall framed by the mountains. Savannah offered the charm of painting The Mercer House from one of its historic squares, where passing tourists and guides entertained me as I worked. While painting in Fort de Soto, Florida, a blue heron walked into my view and became part of the painting. I love being on-site adapting to the changing scenery before me, whether it’s wildlife, the clouds moving through, or the ever-changing light.
My paintings are about Joy… the joy of creating, the joy of being outside in a beautiful setting, the joy of life. And the bright colors represent my optimistic nature, my positive view of life and all its possibilities.
Artist Statement
Most of my paintings are created on-site, inspired directly by the beauty of the scenery encountered during my travels. Upon arriving somewhere new, I spend time exploring — taking in the sights and searching for the ideal setting to paint. I’m looking for an interesting composition that draws you into the scene, and that may have one or two secondary focal points which add depth and interest.
Instead of a white canvas, my paintings start with a vivid cadmium red light underpainting. Using ultramarine blue with a paintbrush, I do a quick sketch of the scene that serves as a guide for the painting. In the final painting, glimpses of the red background and early drawing lines remain visible, enhancing the energy and vibrancy of the colors. As time allows, sometimes I’ll paint for a single day on-site, sometimes several days. My landscapes attempt to capture the emotions and energy sparked by the beauty of such diverse places. Ideally, my art is a celebration of life, an invitation to share in the joy and wonder I’ve experienced in these remarkable settings.
Artist Bio
Anne Garney is a Kansas City-based landscape painter celebrated for her vibrant, expressive style. Inspired by the Fauves and early German Expressionists, Anne blends pure, dynamic color with bold compositions, creating artworks that radiate energy and optimism.
Anne’s paintings have been showcased in over 130 exhibitions nationwide and internationally, including prestigious venues such as the Albrecht-Kemper Museum, the Huntsman Gallery in Aspen, Colorado, the St. Thomas Gallery in the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Anguilla International Art Festival, and Kansas City’s renowned Plaza Art Fair. Anne has also taught Painting classes through the Professional Studies department at the Kansas City Art Institute. Recognized as a featured artist by the Missouri Arts Council in January 2021, Anne’s works are included in numerous public, private, and corporate collections, notably the Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and Ashby-Hodge Gallery, reflecting a growing appreciation for her distinctive and vibrant artistic vision.
