Wave of Waves

“Beachwalking at Low Tide” by Lee Mothes.

The ocean made a deep impression on Lee Mothes starting at about six years of age. Its energy fascinated him, especially when he saw a storm surf rolling over the beach. As a teenager he found spiritual solace in watching the surf while later in life he became enchanted by the beauty of waves in motion and by the sunlight on the water. In all the years since growing up in California, Wisconsin-based Mothes continues to travel back to the ocean’s edge and to the waves in his art. Creating these paintings and drawings connects him to that light and energy – the spiritual as well as the actual. He works in watercolor, acrylic on canvas, and in graphite.

Graphite has been a new venture for Mothes. Drawing waves in graphite allows him to capture subtle shades and patterns without the distraction of color.

“I work in a ‘what if’ world using realism and imagination, with the ocean as a common theme. My goal is to create art that invites you to enjoy nature, especially shorelines; explore places you haven’t seen before, or simply be with the waves, the birds, the salty air and the sun!”

Mothes resides in Kaukauna, Wisconsin, and continues to paint full time and teaches art part time to high school students and adults. His work will be on display at The Flying Pig through the 2015 season.

The Flying Pig Gallery and Greenspace is open 10 am to 5 pm daily and is located at N6975 Highway 42, Algoma. For more information, call 920.487.9902 or email [email protected].