My work is an investigation of the tension between precise observation and painterly abstraction. Drawing on a background in fine art and design, I focus on the formal qualities of oil paint to document the fleeting relationships between people, objects, and their environments. Influenced by the light-driven mastery of Sargent and Sorolla, I approach each canvas with a commitment to strong composition and intentional mark-making. I am drawn to the found moments of life—the structural curiosity of a figure on a city street or the luminous geometry of household objects. To create a painting that captures the essence of a subject, I rely on composition, value, and texture. I enjoy employing subtle color shifts and strong lighting to create depth and atmosphere.
While I serve the arts community through my role at the North Carolina Arts Council, my studio practice is the foundation of my daily life. Whether I am working from a vintage photograph or a contemporary city landscape, my goal is to create work that feels both grounded in history and vibrantly modern.
I strive to produce paintings that offer the viewer a place of interpretation—an invitation to find their own story within the texture and light.
Statement
I work alla prima, en plein air and in the studio, pushing to find the truth in the subject and reflect to the viewer life, light and the moment. I am constantly striving to keep developing as an artist, with experimentation and observation from life as the foundation. My work is in the tradition of realist and impressionist painters, with the goal of bringing a contemporary edge of my own to the work. In each piece, there is a story of a moment that I hope to share through movement, color and light.
Much of my art is rooted in history, connection and conservation. It is driven by a desire to connect with my own personal history and the stories of others. I am tugged daily toward nature and this is reflected in my paintings.
A little about my work
From the blog
“With a harmonious palette of rich color, Andie’s paintings breath life into everyday objects that invite you to contemplate a deeper and more expressive purpose.” - Sharon Crute, Artist
What People Are Saying
“I purchased one of Andie’s customized paintings for each of my four children with their name on it. Each of her paintings were displayed in my babies room for years. I now have them displayed together in our laundry room and they still make me smile and remind me of their younger years.”
— Krista Wells, West Hartford, Connecticut
"Andie Freeman's exquisitely gentle paintings transform ordinary objects into profound reminders of the beauty and mystery of everyday life."
—Robin Holder, Artist