Gail Ragains

Swimming Pool Abstract, Abstract Painting

2021

Artist Comments
Artist Gail Ragains recalls the play of light and cool tones from a time she spent swimming. With this inspiration, Gail paints layers of varied shades of blue and teal on top of pale yellow peeking just enough to show its presence. Suggestions of lanes, a pool deck, and a ladder emerge over a collage of papers that are adhered to the surface in her process of painting.

About the Artist
Artist Gail Ragains paints abstract figurative works defined by strong color combinations and intuitive mark-making. "I approach each creative process as an open-ended improvisation," says Gail. "It is an evolving journey without preconceived plans for a predictable outcome. I react to the materials at hand, stripping away the non-essentials to give a loose interpretation of form, movement, and human expression." Inspired by the physical gestures and emotions of people, the human figure dominates Gail's art. As a young person, Gail was active in dance, ice skating, and gymnastics and competed in triathlons in her 20s. While pursuing a career as a massage therapist for 25 years, Gail simultaneously attended art classes through community colleges, the local Art League, and workshops with artists she admires. Having lived in California her entire life, Gail is influenced by the California colors—golden hills, clear blue skies, swimsuits, and swimming pools. Today, her studio is in her backyard just a few steps away from the home she shares with her husband. “In this workspace, I have everything I need. Good light, music, fresh air, and my studio mate, Sadie, the cutest 14 lb. mixed-breed rescue pup.”

Words that describe this painting: abstract, water, pool, calming, California, swimming pools, cool, mixed media, abstract, mixed media artwork, blue

Swimming Pool Abstract
Gail Ragains
Acrylic paint, and paper on wood
Natural wood edges
Varnished and Ready to hang
One-of-a-kind
Signed on front and back
2021
24 in. h x 24 in. w x 2 in. d
3 lbs. 5 oz.