“The Essence of a Place,” an exhibit of art work by Carolyn Doe, will be on view in the chapel from Sunday, April 7, through May 17, 2024.

Doe is inspired by the natural landscapes that surround her in the various places where she has traveled, lived, and worked. She explains, “My work as a field camp manager and cook around the state of Alaska allowed me to experience wonderful, wild, and remote places. I have worked as far south as Antarctica as well. Like the cold, the beauty of Antarctica’s changing light cuts deep to the bone. And here in the Northwest, I’m continually inspired.” After hours spent outdoors observing, she goes indoors to create.

Doe is mostly self-taught. She was raised by a seamstress, and has always been excited by the fiber arts. She began working in batik on silk fabric over 32 years ago. When dye touches silk fabric it spreads like crazy. The wax creates a boundary. “It is this dance of control/no control that captivates me for hours, “ says Doe. “Through this ethereal quality, I try to convey the essence of a place and of the creatures who dwell there…Batik has become my voice.”

She works from rough sketches and sometimes black and white photos, but mostly she works freehand. She likes the stillness of trees and the movement of birds. They come and go in her paintings.

About nine years ago, Doe took a four-day class on palette knife painting in oils. Using this medium, she creates thick textures and vibrant colors. The instant color and texture, so unlike that created when working in batik, allows her to express images in a totally different and exciting way.

Carolyn Doe makes her home in Port Townsend. In addition to original batik art and paintings, she reproduces her artwork on Giclee prints, both paper and stretched canvas. She also has greeting cards available. Although there will not be an artist reception, viewers may learn more about Doe by visiting her at http://www.carolyndoe.com or Instagram @carolyn.doe.