BELLEVUE, WA.- More than a decade in, Gretchen Gammell’s original paintings have been exhibited in galleries across the western United States and British Columbia. In her latest show, Joy, on view at Hall Spassov Gallery from August 5 through August 31, the artist elaborates on what has become a distinct and notable artistic language.

Themes of the female form, botanicals and wildlife are at the core of Gammell’s work. A skilled storyteller, her attention to detail is evident in the rich textures, unusual colors and purposeful mark-making she applies to her work. Her characters, often stoically staring at the viewer, have a peculiar intensity that is hard to escape.

About her latest series the artist says: “Painting delights me, plain and simple. The challenge of it enrages me, brings me to tears, leaves me pacing, cursing, gloating, yes.” “It is my first love, it will most likely be my last.”

A graduate of the Oregon College of Art and Craft, Gammell currently resides in Vancouver, Washington. Her work can be found in several public and private collections, including the Max Hotel in Seattle, Washington.

Joy is Gammell’s ninth exhibition at HSG.