Isabel Riley’s current body of work is the product of a complex journey, stitching together moments filled with memories, loss and the acceptance of time. Through her unique studio practice, these stunning new works contain a visual offering of both hope and joy.
“These paintings continue to focus my attention towards reverence and devotion. The patterns are derived from an investigation into appliqué quilt work of the late 19th century in Lancaster Pennsylvania where my maternal family is from. Painted in “reverse”, there comes a rebirth through concealment, a new neutrality. Through my art practice, I am focused on the grafting and synthesizing of time and recollection, mending and bending the continuum to catch it up to this present moment. This remedy called “artmaking” helps heal the mysteries of family, honors creative tradition and reveals what is useful in allowing emotion to govern with grace.”
