Lillie Minnifield

Some years ago, I sketched and painted on rare occasions and only started painting again in recent years. As a child, I spent many hours in museums, enjoying the works of famous and no-so-famous artists. Art and poetry have always fascinated me. I paint almost daily and enjoy every minute I am covered in paint. My hands are never fully free of some form of paint.


I especially enjoy creating art about African-American musicians, and capturing unique qualities about them. My work proceeds through a series of sketches, which is transferred to canvas, wood, paper, and hard boards. My technique involves several thin layers of acrylic paint to achieve my vibrant colors. Many of my pieces contain bright colors and elaborate beading, which is done with acrylic paint and oils. I use a variety of methods and mediums. I may use watercolors, oils, acrylics, inks, fabrics, paper, beads, glass, sand, etc. I sometime use intricate designs and no two works are exactly alike…ones-of-a-kind.

I have an insatiable desire for variety; I enjoy painting wildflowers or an abstract, followed by one of jazz’s great musicians. At the risk of sounding trite, variety really is the spice of life.

I never formally studied art and I am not sure what my painting style would be like, if I had. I am sure; however, that my desire to draw and paint could not be more gratifying.
Esther Levy

I was a late bloomer when it comes to the world of art. I didn't start painting until I was in my thirties. My interest began with an in home business that I started with a friend. We personalized children's gifts, and I wanted to add little drawings onto the gifts. I enjoyed doing the art work so much that my life took on a whole new direction. I began taking art classes, and I haven't stopped yet. I find that the more I know, the more I want to learn. Many different types of art mediums interest me, and there are times when I use a variety of them in one art piece.

Most of my work contains paintings of women. I think there is a natural connection that all women share with each other, and I believe that women are very soulful. I always feel that I know some part of the women who appear on my canvas. My art work usually has a lot of bright colors in it. Color has the ability to affect our mood and bright colors can be invigorating as well as up lifting.
I would like my work to touch people on many levels, but I especially want to create a feeling of joy. I think that art is a reflection of the artist and the world they live in, as well as their own personal journey. It can also be a conduit for learning about culture and a way to brin Most g people together. I like to believe that my art work could do both.