"My art studio in London has a big sky light so I can watch the blue sky and the storm clouds and the rain. There are a lot of clouds in London. I like storms and clouds. I like weather a lot. I like looking up through my skylight to see what is happening above me. I painted this big, beautiful painting during a week when we had lots of clouds, but not a lot of rain. And not a lot of blue sky. That’s ok. I know the blue sky is there. Even with the storm clouds. And it’s ok when it rains. As long as I can watch it from my art studio and not get wet!!! In London I have discovered BIG scrapers. I am loving them. I can swipe tons of paint across a canvas to make smooth textures. I can still use my favorite water spray to make drips. And, of course, I love my blue shop towels to smooth edges, if I want. There is a lot of beautiful texture in this painting. I am happy I have these cool scrapers."
- Charlie French
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Santa Fe, NM
“Yes, I have Down syndrome but first I want you to see me: Charlie French. Then I want you to see my ART!”
Abstract artist Charlie French works in his art studio almost daily, his commitment to his craft evident when viewing his beautiful, calming paintings. Born in NY, Charlie has lived both in the US and abroad, currently residing in Santa Fe, NM. While living and studying in London, a teacher noticed Charlie’s innate understanding of color theory and composition, and hence encouraged Charlie and his parents to support and nurture his artistic passion.
Charlie creates impressive abstract works, tapping into his imagination and finding delight in the process as well as the finished product. He is a prolific painter, and when asked about his process responds: "I like colors and shapes. Sometimes I do (paint) a lot. Sometimes not. I don’t think about it. I have fun.” And this is the key to Charlie’s process in that painting is fundamentally and powerfully a positive and therapeutic experience. Studio time is most exciting, pushing boundaries and filled with exploration and energy, and then relaxing into a rhythm of contented, peaceful creation. Charlie’s abstract paintings mirror the joy of his imagination, and share with the world a piece of his happiness. All of which provides Charlie with a meaningful, purposeful life.
When Charlie is not in his studio with his dog, Percy, he enjoys hanging out with friends and family. One of his dream projects is to gather his artist friends together in the studio for a collaborative painting piece, and then celebrate with hamburgers, fries and chocolate almond milk.
ArtLifting champions artists impacted by disabilities and housing insecurity by connecting their art with socially-conscious customers . Learn more here.
