Phyllis Thelen Art
More than the result, the process is central to my creative urge.
I live in the process, take up residence there, and journey there in my imagination. If the result looks like a sanctuary, a boat, or creatures who inhabit the space, that is my residency.
I lose myself in the environment I have created and it has emotional meaning for me; sometimes joyous and sometimes devastating. It may signify a past memory of place. It may convey an emotion experienced as a result of an event.
It is my hope that there are others who feel as I do and through my art they can inhabit the same imaginary journeys/escapes to serene places of the planet or of the mind and take peace and pleasure in their time spent there.
Vision Statement
Phyllis Thelen received her B.A. at Connecticut College and was awarded an honorary Ph.D. at Dominican University in 2002. Special studies were pursued at the Art Institute of San Francisco and with Toshi Yoshida in Japan.
Solo and group shows have been installed at the Quilt Museum of San Jose, University of California, and Dominican University. Honors include induction into the Marin Woman’s Hall of Fame, “Best of Show” at Marin County Fair, “Living Treasure” award and show at Artisans Gallery in San Rafael.
Phyllis’s early artworks experienced a sudden change after 9/11. From two dimensional serigraphs and collage, she began creating three dimensional works. In seeking escape from the present world situation, Phyllis builds imaginary habitats, boats, and creatures constructed from recycled art and natural fibers.
Phyllis maintains a studio at Art Works Downtown in San Rafael, California.
