Sometimes in life we travel on many different paths to get to our calling. Art and being creative is an innate part of my spirit, something that is deeply rooted within my soul. Through my many career iterations working as a graphic designer, STEAM educator, and fine artist I am drawn to create works of art that are abstracted, figurative, and innovative. My art is a reflection of my experiences and curiosities that allow me to explore the endless possibilities of my imagination. 

Statement

Making dynamic abstract art is like building an artistic puzzle—arranging the layers so they fit just right, in the place they were meant to be.

I start with underpainting created with wild abandon using energetic brush strokes, splashes of paint, drips and marks that result in various textures. As the surface builds, my eyes zero in to create areas of control. Patterns appear from what was line and color.

Scraping through areas gives way to hidden gems that peek through the top layer, revealing my secrets (solving the puzzle) in how it was made.

Bio

Ann Wirtz is a rule follower with a little bit of a rebellious side when it comes to creating. She invites viewers on a visual journey to notice the subtle emotions, layers of intrigue, and deliberate details in her abstract contemporary artwork. Ann is influenced by her background in graphic design incorporating structure with textures, and patterns, while taking risks using playful yet bold applications of the paint in her work. 

Her artwork has been displayed locally in juried shows, and galleries as a member of the Santa Barbara Art Association, and the Abstract Art Collective. Ann currently has pieces in various private collections, and in the permanent collection at Cal Poly. 

Ann has a Bachelor's degree in Applied Art & Design with a minor degree in Graphic Communications from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.  She also has multiple teaching credentials including a single subject in art from Westmont, a CTE Arts, Media and Entertainment credential, and an ITE credential in Industrial Technology.

Born and raised in Santa Barbara, California Ann has been on a creative journey from a young age. She failed out of Spanish 3 in high school only to transfer into Advanced Placement Art where she found her true calling. Guided by teachers and mentors she had a successful career as a graphic designer, and after getting tired of sitting behind a computer all day she decided to get her teaching credential and became a STEAM educator. Coming full circle she is now applying her knowledge of graphic design and teaching into her fine art career.