Lisa Shimko: 'naturalistic to abstract" painter broadens her range

"What is your relationship with nature?" That is the question that Lisa Shimko's Web site asks the viewer while browsing through her paintings of birds, fruit and tree canopies.

Shimko's water-based paintings on wood and canvas convey her passion and deep respect for the environment. Many of Shimko's paintings draw attention to the issues that food production creates and the effects it has on wildlife. About using her art as activism, Shimko said, "I see unlimited possibilities in art. It can be a catalyst for more than aesthetic pleasure, being a great tool for education on so many levels."

Shimko's decision to use acrylic paints stem partly from the ecological effect that oil paints and their solvents have on the environment. Most of Shimko's paintings are inspired by nature, but as of late, Shimko has begun to create what she calls "upcycle" pieces. Shimko takes fliers from past art shows and collages them together to create upcycle art. They are affordably priced and help Shimko move through her creative process.

Shimko also creates nonrepresentational art and describes her work as "naturalistic to abstract and somewhere in between." Shimko has been represented by Plum Elements for the past three years, and with the art gallery closing tonight, is looking for a new home for her artwork. Shimko was selected as the 2008 Charleston Farmers Market artist; her painting of a tomato that won the award has been seen all over Charleston. To meet the artist, go to Plum Elements at 161 King Str. tonight for the closing reception, The Big Domo

Next Event: Tonight, The Big Domo at Plum Elements, 161 King St. featuring jazz vocalist Leah Suarez. 6-9 p.m. Free.

Website: www.shimkoart.com; blog: www.vertindigo.blogspot.com.

Contact Info: vertindigo@yahoo.com.

Birth date and place: Dec. 13, York, Pa.

Residence: Downtown Charleston, four years,

Education: Bachelor of Fine Arts in painting, minor art therapy, Philadelphia University of the Arts.

Goals: Having my art shown in a larger scope, worldwide coverage perhaps and figuring out clever ways to use art as activism.

What book are you reading now?: "Love in the Time of Cholera" by Gabriel Garcia Marquez.

Influences: Gustav Klimt, Martin Puryear, Francois Nicolas Martinet, trees.

Where has your artwork been featured locally?: Plum Elements, Scoop Studios, Robert Lange Gallery.

Price Range: $50-$2,500.