110th Anniversary Artist Statement

"A Keystone is the stone at the top of the arch that keeps
the whole structure in place. It also symbolizes the concept that all pieces of
a structure must work together to support the whole. These paintings are
heavily influenced by my roots in architecture and puzzle solving. They are
created with multiple layers and an exploration of shapes, geometry, color and
design. Each “piece” in the painting is integral to the structure of the
composition.

As our world grows more complicated, I feel the connection
to, and the knowledge of our history becomes increasingly important. This
elemental concept of the “keystone” was the literal foundation of ancient
architecture, government and civilization. Reinterpreting it with a
contemporary approach, gives me a connection to and sense of continuity with
the past." - Melinda Cootsona

Melinda Lomax Cootsona is a native of Northern California. She received her BFA from the California College of the Arts in Oakland, CA in 1981. She has been inspired by Richard Diebenkorn and David Park, also the Society of Six. Having painted for over 25 years, Melinda is currently focusing on abstract and figurative work, often combining elements of both. The unifying element in her paintings is a strong understanding of color and composition. The artist’s work is vibrant and saturated with a keen sense of light.

Melinda has been included in exhibitions at The Bakersfield Museum of Art, San Luis Obispo Plein Air Painting Competition and the Triton Museum where she won an Award of Merit. Most recently she exhibited in a group show at the Coos Bay Museum of Art in Oregon.