Elizabeth Craumer

My work constitutes a variety of pastel and oil landscapes. These mediums are closely related in the way they are applied. I apply the pastel on its side to get a wide, even stroke and I apply the oil with a palette knife to get a wide, even stroke. My style is distinctive because of its  Impressionistic’ feel. The layering of pure color creates the visual blending.

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My original influence was my mother who was always working on some type of
creative project. Whether it was painting, sculpting or refinishing furniture there was
always something being created in our house.

I began taking private art lessons as a young teenager and participated in local art shows. My art skills were further developed by working toward and receiving a BFA from the Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore. There, I received a very solid background in drawing and painting. As an undergraduate, one of my favorite areas of study was lithography. Making limited-color lithograph prints helped clarify how values create form. Later, I went back to school and earned an M.S. in Art Education so that I could share my passion with others. I currently have my studio as well as teach classes at Creative Ventures Gallery.

Since moving to New Hampshire a few years ago, I have been inspired by the uniquely  beautiful landscapes around me to create colorful pastel pieces. I have learned a lot by painting outdoors on location with the NH Plein Air group and becoming totally immersed in the environment in which I am working. These experiences forced me to make quick, bold decisions because the light is always changing. Working from photographs provides me the artistic opportunity to select the lighting as well as the season. They give me a little more freedom to experiment with the color of the landscape. I have recently discovered that flowers catch incredible light.

Memberships include Pastel Society of New Hampshire, and NHPlein Air. I am a past President of the Pastel Society of New Hampshire. The NOA Gallery at the Groton Inn in Groton, MA represents my work. My work can also be seen at Creative Ventures Gallery in Milford. Awards have been received through participation in juried indoor and outdoor shows around New England. I have been featured in the Monadnock Magazine, the Bedford Journal, the Hippo and the Amherst Citizen.

**Gallery note—Betsy Craumer’s family owned and ran the original Groton Inn from 1906—1939.