Judy Gittelsohn’s work moves beyond simple strokes and colors, tapping into the core of human experience. Raised in Portland, Oregon’s lush landscape, her art is shaped by early memories of family gatherings, shared spaces, and an environment that nurtured her sense of community. Growing up with extended family all under one roof, Gittelsohn’s early life was an ongoing tapestry of connection and shared moments. The beach house at Cannon Beach and days by the community pool filled her with a sense of belonging and unity that later infused her art.
After pursuing architecture at the University of Oregon, Gittelsohn moved to San Francisco, where she became immersed in the city’s energetic art scene. During this period, her creative exploration spanned from playing in punk bands to co-founding a maternity clothing line. Eventually, painting took the lead as her central creative outlet. In 2007, she launched Art For Well Beings, a studio dedicated to making art accessible to people with special needs, emphasizing inclusivity and creative expression for all. Through her artistic journey, Gittelsohn has developed a style that uses form and color to reach beyond surface-level imagery and explore universal themes.
Greg In His Garden
“Greg In His Garden” showcases Gittelsohn’s talent for intertwining the real and the symbolic. Greg, standing firmly as the scene’s focal point, appears almost rooted, an anchor amid swirling elements. The world around him is in flux, yet he remains steady, echoing the resilience found in moments of calm amidst life’s continuous changes.
Gittelsohn uses color to set Greg apart from his surroundings, wrapping him in warm, earthy tones while lighter, more delicate shades flow around him. Through layered brushwork, Gittelsohn forms a unified composition that symbolizes the sense of inner stability people find even when everything around them feels chaotic.
Electricity of Coincidence
In “Electricity of Coincidence,” Gittelsohn captures the energy and spontaneity of life’s chance encounters. This piece celebrates those fleeting yet impactful moments when paths cross, forming bonds that, while brief, leave a lasting impression. The canvas is alive with vibrant colors and energetic shapes, mirroring the thrill and vitality of serendipitous meetings.
The painting’s composition reflects an intricate dance of shapes, colors, and lines that come together in a dynamic display of movement. Through these elements, Gittelsohn expresses her appreciation for life’s surprises and the unity they bring. Her colors and forms intersect to create a sense of togetherness, suggesting that even brief connections can foster a feeling of shared understanding.
Portrait of a Doctor as a Young Woman
In “Portrait of a Doctor as a Young Woman,” Gittelsohn captures a young woman at the edge of a transformative journey. She stands poised and focused, facing forward with calm determination as she steps into her role as a healer. Surrounding her is a turbulent scene, with darkening skies and shifting ground, representing the challenges she must confront.
The young doctor is rendered in clear, focused lines and muted colors, standing strong against a backdrop of chaos. The surrounding brushstrokes are loose and expressive, underscoring the obstacles she must navigate. Rather than being intimidated by the looming storm, she seems to draw strength from it, symbolizing resilience and purpose. This painting explores the power of commitment, presenting a young woman’s path toward self-discovery and dedication to her calling.
Conclusion
Gittelsohn’s art creates a space for contemplation, resilience, and connection. Her paintings delve into themes of human unity and strength, inviting viewers to reflect on their own experiences of connection and growth. Each piece captures both the quiet moments of introspection and the lively energy of unexpected encounters. Through Art For Well Beings, Gittelsohn extends her creative vision, fostering a community where all can engage in art and expression. Her works, painted with warmth and intention, encourage viewers to seek out the delicate threads that connect us, inviting them to look beneath the surface for the deeper meaning within each moment.
