• Home
  • Paintings
    • paintings
    • small paintings
    • residency
  • Installations
  • Commissions
  • About
  • Instagram
  • Blog
  • Contact
  • Menu

Marcia McMillen | Artist

  • Home
  • Paintings
    • paintings
    • small paintings
    • residency
  • Installations
  • Commissions
  • About
  • Instagram
  • Blog
  • Contact

“Shift” - 24x24

Art Is Alive

February 07, 2025

Art Is Alive: The Ever-Changing Nature of Meaning

A painting is never just one thing. It exists in layers—of color, of intention, of time. What I see in a piece the day I finish it may not be what I see a year later. And once it’s out in the world, its meaning expands even further.

When I paint, I follow an impulse, responding to color relationships and the way forms emerge. At the time, it may feel like I understand what’s happening. But later, I notice something new—an emotion I hadn’t realized was present, a structure that seems to hold a different energy than I intended. The work has shifted, or maybe I have.

Once a piece leaves my hands, it’s no longer just mine. Someone else might see something I never did. Their perspective adds another layer. I’ve had collectors describe the feeling a painting gives them, and it’s often something I hadn’t put into words but recognize instantly.

Art is alive in this way. It continues to evolve, shaped by time and by the people who experience it.

What is something in your life that has taken on new meaning over time?

Prev / Next

If you have any questions or inquires on my paintings please email me.  

McMillen.Marcia@gmail.com
or call 859-760-2558

Subscribe to Blog

Sign up with your email address to receive creative inspirations, insights and thoughts.

We respect your privacy.

Thank you!