Art with a Story
“The Empress” is an abstract mixed media painting that exudes strength, elegance, and femininity through a rich palette of purple, pink, red, orange, yellow, and gold hues. Crafted with acrylic, spray paint, cellophane, crushed glass, wire, Swarovski crystals, and resin, it showcases a captivating blend of textures and materials inspired by Near and Middle Eastern aesthetics. The gold elements impart a sense of movement and rhythm, reminiscent of a Bollywood dance. This mesmerizing fusion of colors and textures evokes majesty and cultural richness, celebrating the grace and strength of femininity and inviting viewers to experience a visual symphony embodying the spirit of royalty and dance.
Exhibitions
08/2024, D'Art Gallery, Denver, CO
About the Artist
Amanda Stavast Metcalf was born and raised in Colorado. Her desire to create from an early age led her to obtain a BFA from Colorado State University in 1999. After working in graphic design for a few years she decided to focus her creative energy into mural work and started her own company in 2001. Stavast’s murals can be found in both large-scale corporate and residential settings throughout Colorado’s Front Range and Denver Metro area. While she is still commissioned for mural work, in recent years, she has taken a deep dive into traditional paintings on canvas. The pieces she creates come from a deep emotional space. Luckily, she is not constrained to one particular style of work, and that allows her to explore her creativity boundlessly. Each style of work teaches her something about herself. A floral still life allows her to give in to her urge to be perfect. Landscapes teach her to live in the moment and convey tranquility. Conceptual work allows her to get all of the interesting and creative ideas out of her head. Abstracts force her to let go of all expectations and be free. The compilation of these themes makes Amanda the well-rounded artist she is today.
Amanda lives in the Denver Metro area with her husband and four children. She loves wearing the hats of artist, wife, mother, exercise junkie and margarita lover.