Originally from Washington, DC, as a young child I always loved to draw. When I was in church, as the minister preached and the choir sang, I would be drawing. My mother noticed my interest and placed me in community art classes which took me on visits to the local galleries such as the National Gallery of Art and the Corcoran Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. Later I received my Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Maryland, College Park where I majored in Radio, Television and Film and minored in Art Studio. It was not until 1983 when I moved to San Francisco, California that I started painting on canvas and until 2007, art was an up and down pursuit.
Today, it is my vocation and my work has evolved with exhibitions in galleries, yoga studios, cafes and restaurants, etc, throughout the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond as well as purchased and placed in private homes. Additionally, I paint murals and produce commissioned art for organizations and individuals including but not limited to portraits and still life images of natural scenery and landmarks.
IDEAS & INSPIRATIONS
Often times, however, our major growth comes from transformative experiences. Although I was always on a spiritual journey, it wasn't until I experienced a crisis that I found myself on the road to self-discovery. I became inspired to take up painting once again after a long hiatus, but not just as a hobby. It is one of my passions and part of my life purpose in promoting brotherhood and awakening one to perceive their lives from a more deeper spiritual perspective. You will see in most of my current work that I depict mysticism, sacred icons, natural elements, etc., while integrating realism and symbolism. My art work is influenced by Leonardo da Vinci, Frida Kahlo, and Alex Grey.
FROM PALETTE TO PICTURE
The images I produce are mostly captured on stretched canvas using acrylic paint. When I'm painting, I like to listen to jazz, opera, classical and world music (Arabic, African and Latin) because it inspires me, connecting with my soul.
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF WANDA K. WHITAKER
When I get up in the mornings, I like to meditate and reflect on gratitude. This sets the pace for the day. Often, I will take a long walk in nature, go to the beach or hike up a hill where atop I will witness the most breathtaking view. This opens me up to creative expression.
Available for commissioned artwork including portraits.
CONTACT INFO:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (415) 760-7751