Artist Statement and Biography Chi E Shenam Westin

mr_chi@msn.com | 208-440-2107

Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, I have created art my whole life. I studied art at BSU and with locally and internationally known teachers in oil painting and in Chinese calligraphy. I combine traditional and contemporary techniques to create art that holds value.

When I’m painting oil on canvas, I strive for clarity and the experience of the deep presence of being there. When I am painting oil on copper or aluminum it is the lightness of being, a fleeting moment of existence.When painting Plein Air, it is the sun and wind, the dust, rain and bugs that gives that spot I am standing  a special memory. So, when I am back in my studio to do larger paintings from my field work, I still remember the magic. I am currently showing my art in Boise by appointment and on First Thursdays in the Alaska Center. I am a member of Oil Painters of America, International Miniatures Association, Plein Air Painters of Idaho and the Nampa Art Guild.