HOLLIS MACHALA WHO?...

Bio:

I create watercolor art inspired by my design background and its’ ties and travels rooted in New England but also throughout the US. I am a Signature Member of the Rhode Island Watercolor Society. My style is vibrant and fresh; rendering the texture/spirit of still life’s and landscapes. I use a subdued technique, with strong characteristic details that mark each painting as alive and fresh.

I received my BA in interior design from, the former, Mount Ida College in ‘06. I began a passion for watercolor painting after a few years with lighting design and since working and mentoring with Frank M. Costantino at his illustration and fine art firm from 2007 to 2010. And finally, after working with a fantastic event specialist team in retail for 5 years, I decided to close that chapter on an artless life to pursue my lifelong passion for painting and the arts. 

Artist Statement:

It is my intent to enhance life with watercolor art. I compose each watercolor painting with a camera; then I rework it back in the studio. My intention goes beyond my realistic style to reach out with new projects which currently include my growing Still Life Expressions Series and in teaching more people about watercolor basics in an effort to help students and fans to enjoy what watercolor has to offer in creativity, health, and art therapy. I am drawn to and renewed by nature, photography, and food for my paintings inspirations.

I live in the country with my humble, hardworking, retired folks. My dream is to reach more people with the power of having an, art filled, inspiring space that makes all the difference. I also want to help people be healthy, happy, and energized every day from the power and value of art. 

Why Watercolor:

Why not? I say! I'm allergic to oil paint and acrylic dries too fast for my liking. That's the short answer. I'm truly enthralled in the magic of watercolor. I'm always looking for new ways to create the most unique and highest quality art with this medium.

Long answer: I was diagnosed with Ulnar Nerve Syndrome in my right hand in 8^th grade when I started music classes and I couldn’t get to a higher level with the clarinet. Wanting to pursue an artist career ever since high school, I tried every art medium that I could get exposure to but watercolor wasn’t introduced to me until 2007. Watercolor is totally groovy for my right hand and it’s what my senses truly enjoy working with. Watercolor is the only medium that speaks to me and the water of watercolor is the key ingredient that fascinates me. There is this burst of life that happens when the water hits the paper and when the pigments interact that I love working with. Watercolor gives me life. Since 2012 it has been a world win of side jobs to make this journey possible. 2020 is my rebirth year and I now paint full-time.