My name is Stacey Best. I have been painting since 2002. I am a lawyer as well, and have been practicing law in California since 1987. But, now, I paint much more than I practice law. I paint to bring me closer to nature, friends, family. Something lawyering never quite did for me. My painting reflects what I feel, what I'm close to, and who I am. I am free because it is my choice.
I paint mainly with acrylic paint on canvas. I occasionally incorporate wood, small materials, or fabric. Bright colors are my palette and I prefer to instill a joyful play into my work. My inspiration comes from beauty: the beauty of the incredible nature around me and the beauty of the incredible people I know.
I paint people I know and love: parents, children, nieces, nephews, siblings, cousins, friends. I am inspired by the nature that I am lucky enough to live close to. Biking and hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains in Southern California allows me to gather the flowers, rocks, mountains, trees, oceans and skies for my paintings.
My canvas reflects the peace and exhilaration that envelopes me during my excursions to the scrublands, forests and California coastline. Physically participating in nature is tied very tightly with my art.
Animals are another big part of my painting. Painting people's pets and portraying the love those pets have for their owners-priceless. Brightly colored wildlife and capturing the essence of the animal and its relationship to its environment are also important to my art.
I hope that my paintings bring joy and inspire to you.
