Featured Artist Friday: Belinda Knetge

Belinda KnetgeBelinda Knetge in her own words:

“This photo of me was taken before my husband passed away in 1999--and I’m standing in front of a painting I completed before my preferred subject matter and style emerged. I came up with the idea to paint "real bikers" a couple years prior to his passing.  In fact, he went with me to the start of a “Love Ride Run” -  where I walked around with my camera taking pictures. He didn't think I was serious about this calling, until he saw me getting up very early to get out there! Then...he decided to escort me, for safety reasons."

"I was born in Los Angeles in 1951. I was raised by my single mother, who had decided early on that marriage wasn't her cup of tea. She liked freedom and adventure. You could say that I was born and  raised in the 50's, grew up in the 60's, learned some life lessons in the 70's, got married in the 80's (happily, I enjoyed it) and then became a widow in the late 90's.  When I met my husband I was attending Pasadena City College, with the intention of getting an art degree.  I got married instead and put all my creative efforts into keeping a home and family.  It wasn't until the mid 90's that I felt the urge to paint again. I started some  oil painting classes--and a year or so later, that my husband died. My life changed."

Belinda Knetge, "Stage Hand", Oils on Canvas"My work embodies the transition of a regulated, pre-programmed American woman, who lived by the dictates of traditional society to be confined, orderly and in her place...the home. Propelled by inner revelations and the drama of a new life, I've chosen to step into a more chaotic world of motion and heat--the rebel world of the modern “outlaw.” Here lies the spark of wanton need that ignites the fire of our evolving culture and my creative imagination. It is my endeavor to capture the spark in each of my subjects, in a manner that puts the viewer in touch with his or her own inner desire to live beyond the boundaries of order.  Thus, there has emerged a transition in my work as a reflection of my life.”

Belinda Knetge, "American Stage", Oils on CanvasAn opening of an exhibit that features Belinda’s work will be held on May 5th, from 6-10 pm @ RicRok's Tatoo, located at 6181 Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA 90042 (Highland Park).There will be a band, Blind Pony, at the opening reception. By all means--stop by to meet Belinda, and see her beautiful work. Belinda has been workshopping with me for several years--and I’ve watched her grow into an amazing artist.