In my work I like to use a lot of materials and experiment with the different ways to create features, textures, and colors. Most of my work is mixed media. I like using spray-paints, acrylics, oils, jewels, glitter, pens, printmaking, designing textures, fashion, clothes, textiles, sewing, metal, oil pastels. My work has developed into a style in which I approach each piece with a very loose plan and just start it. Once I have started the piece it becomes easier to figure out its direction. This past year I have been very passionate about reworking clothing and working with designing on clothes and printing.

Most of my influences tend to be very natural. Nature inspires me daily to see things in their raw form and the beauty of nature and the life it creates. There is so much beauty and color life has to offer. Butterflies are a symbol of inspiration in my life by their beauty and grace. They have the most intricate features and are extremely delicate. They also are a reminder to me that life is short, and it is important to do what you want and not live life out of fear instead take advantage of the power of the present. Last winter in Rome observing the art was indescribable, and so powerful to feel the connection to the artists. My other main inspiration comes from women. Painting the female form shows confidence and power through body positivity movements and self-expression. I now currently am exploring the beauty around me with flowers and butterflies and incorporating them with identity by portraiture. These inspirations allow me to have the confidence in myself that I can have importance throughout my work by voicing self-expression. I make art hoping that my work inspires not only myself but others and reminds us all our world is so full of color and life.

Hi, I’m Paige West. I was born in Spokane, Washington, and the oldest of 3 sisters. In school I always was excited about art class because I loved creating. I drew features of faces focusing on eyes, lips, and noses. I’d spend hours watching drawing YouTubes learning on my own. I started going to a specialty art group where my teacher painted in the most beautiful ways. She taught me about flow and colors and how the relation of one object influences the next. In high school I was nominated for a Spokane Scholar for Art. In terms of medium, mixed media has always been the most exciting to me, spray-paints, oils, charcoal, acrylics, pens, jewels, glitter. I love it all. They all inspire me to not be confined to rules and let my imagination wonder. Not confining my work to certain mediums gave me the ability to expand my horizons past canvases and drawing. I would help with the yearly murals they do for graduating students in high school and in 2020 I completed a 9ft by 35ft mural in a café in Spokane. It was such a good challenge for me and took me only 5 days. That experience inspired me to seek more opportunities with working very large canvases. Last winter I studied abroad in Rome and was amazed at the art there. The majestic nature of it and the ability to walk down the streets living amongst famous art history. Currently I have been shown by Lawrence and Scott, a luxury goods consignment store that sells all over the world. I plan to continue seeking out artistic opportunities to grow my skills and let my work inspire those around me to admire the good instead of the bad.