Amazing Living Woman Artist #4

Today I’ll share amazing living woman artist #4. If you’re new here, welcome! Now through May 15, I’m writing the who, what and why of some living women artists. Why? Well thank you for asking! A couple of weeks ago, I asked if you, gentle reader might be interested in this. And the answer in the comments was a resounding ‘yes!‘ Also, I am going to be away doing research on all things art and painting for awhile. So, I hope these posts about amazing living women artists will sustain you while I take a break from posting my paintings on Thursdays until mid-May.

Landscape or Ground Rules

Just to set the ground rules so you understand the landscape and road ahead, here are some details. I don’t personally know any of these artists. If I have met them in person, I may share that. But what’s more important to me is that these are working, contemporary artists, whose work I admire and who you may not have heard of.

The scope will be short and sweet. This means I hope to share one or two images of the artist’s work and, if you’re interested, how you learn more about them. That’s it! The plan is to share these amazing living women artists’ and their work, once a week from now till mid-May. Are you excited to ‘meet’ this week’s artist? Me too! Here she is.

Meet Claudia Rilling

A painting pal of mine introduced me to Ms. Rilling’s work. I was smitten immediately but I could not actually articulate what it was about her paintings that I love.

Then, as the pandemic rolled on, I signed up for one of her online classes. As I listen to her teach, demonstrate painting technique and offer critiques, I realize what appeals to me. First, she uses words and speaks thoughtfully and carefully. Second, she is very clear about her intention as she teaches and paints. Third, she seems to seek a route with her work where she wants the viewer, you and me, to see what works in her work.

Explain Please

What in the world do I mean by that last sentence? Well, I think Ms. Rilling simplifies her paintings with beautiful, brushstrokes. And, that simplification leaves room for viewers to scan the painting and see what matters to them.

Oh and by the way, I have no idea if this is her intention with her paintings. This is just my interpretation. After all, she has had lots and lots of training but she is using her training uniquely. I mean she is using oil paint and big luscious shapes to communicate a view that is simply beautiful and alluring.

See What I Mean

Here are two of her paintings. After all my words above, I realize I must share her paintings so that they can speak for themselves!

The other experience I have with these paintings, is the material itself. These paintings are created by someone who knows oil paint and loves it too.

How to Learn More

To follow Claudia Rilling on her painting journey, check out and consider following her on Instagram here. Thank you for reading about this week’s amazing living woman artist today. We are more than halfway through this series! I’m curious to hear what you think of this artist’s work. Please share your thoughts in the comments below. And, just a reminder, these posts will be coming out each Friday till mid-May. I look forward to sharing a new artist with you next week.