Fiestaware and Pastry Paintings

In high school, I was introduced to the sensuous pop art images of pies and cakes by Wayne Theibaud. With Mr. Thiebaud’s images in mind, and with past experience creating images of edibles, I have focused these paintings on the simple idea of fulfillment. Confectionery imagery, uplifting patterns, and the colorful qualities of Fiestaware all work in harmony as purely visual elements.

However, there exists in this work a hint of something more, such as desire, and pleasure. These are emotions we all experience but are often unwilling embrace because of our harried lives or feelings of guilt brought about by outside influences. This work is meant to remind us that indulging ourselves from time to time encourages a healthy and inspired attitude.

Donna Neithammer Cusano

All of my still life images are painted from life. In the studio, I have the ability to control lighting and all other aspects of composition, unlike working en plein air. Once subject has been determined, I’ll begin by blocking in shapes very loosely, allowing the image to dictate compositional changes as needed. Once painting has begun in earnest, I try to maintain a rapid pace since the comforts of the studio can invite fussiness and overworking of the image.