Artist Joan Burger Siem presents a thought-provoking and magical collection of paintings. See more of her work on her website.
“Clear View” acrylic on canvas, 48″ x 60″
I studied painting and printmaking in California where I received my BFA and MA at Stanford University and my MFA at San Jose State. To help pay tuition, I illustrated for the Botany department and designed flower arrangements for the local florist shop.
“Midnight Dance at the Museum of Natural History” acrylic on canvas, 30″ x 40″
After graduating, I left for Europe where I lived and exhibited for many years. I exhibited in Norway, Denmark, Sweden. France, Spain, and Germany. I had one year in Japan where I exhibited several places, including Tokyo.
“Light” acrylic on canvas, 42″ x 54″
After returning to the states, I was privileged to be invited to exhibit my work in The Art in Embassies program. It was started by John F. Kennedy, for the purpose of promoting peace around the world through art.
“Curiosity” acrylic on canvas, 30″ x 24″
I’ve taught art at The University of Maryland, European Division, and at The Sondre Jyland Art Academy in Denmark.
“In Natural Balance” acrylic on canvas, 65″ x 48″
Now I’m living in Houston and exhibiting mostly in the United States. Among the places I’ve exhibited: The ARC Gallery in Chicago, Illinois. Brownsville Art Museum, Texas, Vignette Art Fair, The Women’s Museum Dallas, Art Benicia Gallery, California. Las Laguna Art Gallery, California, Menino Art Center, Boston, Shock Box Gallery, Hermosa Beach, California, Hilliard Gallery in Kansas City, Missouri, Cultural Center of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, Gallery Keep Contemporary, Santa Fe, New Mexico, Attleboro Art Museum, Massachusetts.
“Ray of Hope” acrylic on canvas, 52″ x 60″
When I paint, I try to balance between intent and leaving space for a little magic that can carry the work over the boundaries of intent. I feel such gratitude when I’m joined by forces beyond my limitations.
“Ophelia” acrylic on canvas, 42″ x 46″
When I feel that a painting has touched another person in a way that awakens something in them, something that was there but not expressed before, something universal has been touched.
“Filtered Light” acrylic on canvas, 30″ x 24″
It is within this commonality that art has the power to unite across diverse languages and cultures and to feel our common humanity. Art should not be overlooked as a tool for peace.