Ava Young

"My work builds layer upon layer, shade upon shade, ending in a richly colored and deeply textured painting. The painting beckons the viewer, inviting them to discover subtle surprises and unexpected delights hidden in full view on the canvas."

Ava Young came to painting late in life, first having to overcome the externally planted voices in her head that limited her creativity. Having accomplished that, she braved a few art classes and within a year, saw her work hanging in two of the best galleries in Arizona. Now, she's thrilled to stand in front of a blank canvas, eager to see what the next spontaneous step brings.

Ava begins with texture. She creates the foundation for each piece using a wide variety of materials—either on their own or combined—including molding paste, gel, sand, lava rock, paper, fabric, metal, or even dry wall compound. Then, she adds layer upon layer of color, sometimes with additional texture. Always based in acrylic, sometimes ending with oil stick, the resulting paintings draw the art lover closer, inviting them on their own journey of discovery.

Ava Young is essentially self-taught, although she has taken various classes and workshops as a self-directed adult student. Having become a professional artist almost ten years ago, she continues to indulge her curiosity by working with other mediums including oil paint, impasto, and cold wax.