When I consider what inspires my work, I don't have to think hard. My art is inspired by simple places that take my breath away. I paint those things that often go unnoticed in people's high-paced lives or those places that people dream of experiencing the first time or again and again. When I stepped off the plane on my first visit to Europe and saw the old buildings and streets that have been around for hundred of years, it became obvious what I wanted to paint. At one point in my life, I considered studying architecture. That is why my art focuses so much on buildings and architectural elements. The detailed subject matter ties in perfectly with my realistic approach to painting. There is no other way that I can capture the beauty of what I see other than realistically. My goal as an artist is to beautify one's surrounding and uplift sensitivities with the depiction of charming, serene and beautiful places. If I have accomplished these two tasks, then I have become a successful artist.
MEET THE ARTIST
Claire Long has enjoyed creating her art since early childhood. Her work has matured into paintings that capture the beauty of simple things immediately around her and in the world at large. Claire spends her creative energy working in oils primarily capturing the charm of local buildings and international street scenes, both modern and Medieval. She also portrays the simple non-hidden themes surrounding windows and doors, awash in color and flowers. She paints in a realistic style with attention to detail and application of color and textures. Although her paintings look rough to the touch, they are actually created with smooth brushstrokes giving her paintings their unique and beautiful style. Each painting becomes a study of how light effects colors, shapes, and textures. When you look at Claire's painting, you are transported in space and time to a place that is captivating and alluring. One of her best compliments was given from a man who said, "Your paintings are more beautiful than photographs." That compliment has inspired Claire's work.