In a bold compelling style, Hamilton creates a fantastic world populated by colorful and idiosyncratic people and animals.
The figures and personified animals in these new paintings are engaged in familiar, yet curious situations and are mysterious and full of fantasy. As Hamilton states, "My interests lie in the juxtaposition of what actually exists in my surroundings and what I can add through the use of the truths and untruths that form my personal history". Hamilton belongs to a tradition of female artists in Seattle who convey personal visions through narratives.
In theses small intimate paintings, bright colors (reds, greens, and purples) energize the images and bring them to life. Clothing worn by the female figures are painted as if made from landscape materials. Sleek, sly birds and fish are living satirical lives with human-like relationships and attire. All are involved in rather mysterious and vague narratives with identities which are bound, veiled or camouflaged.
Isabel Sim Hamilton received her MFA from the University of Washington in 1975. She has exhibited her work throughout Washington, and has been a guest lecturer and juror at various locations in the area. Her work has been reproduced for book covers, albums and other publications.
