Maridee Hays is a California artist whose work is a vibrant fusion of literature, dance, Eastern studies, psychology, journaling, and studio arts. This eclectic background has culminated in a unique artistic style, deeply influenced by Eastern philosophy and spiritual exploration. Maridee’s art is an ongoing journey into the realms of consciousness and perception, continually progressing as she broadens her vision and explores new ways of seeing.
Maridee’s artistic journey began in California, where her passion for various disciplines laid the foundation for her distinctive approach to art. Her work reflects a profound engagement with Eastern philosophy, a deep love for exploring the depths and breadths of human experience, and a commitment to expanding her own vision. This multifaceted inspiration is evident in her creations, which often incorporate elements of her diverse studies and interests.
One of Maridee’s artworks, “Thought Feel,” exemplifies her approach to art. This large-scale oil painting, measuring 80 inches in height and 61 inches in width, is a testament to her philosophy that life is in a constant state of flux—what is seen one moment may be gone the next. The painting embodies this idea, capturing the ephemeral nature of existence and the ever-changing landscape of human thought and emotion.
“Thought Feel” is not just a visual representation but also an experiential one. Maridee chose not to use gesso as a ground for this piece, opting instead for glue, which allowed the paint to saturate directly into the material. This technique creates a raw and immediate connection between the artist and the canvas, as if the painting itself is absorbing and reflecting the artist’s inner world. The inclusion of her body’s outline and the words “thought” and “feel” adds a personal dimension to the work, making it a reflection of her own physical and emotional presence.
Maridee describes her paintings as large drawings—worlds within themselves. This perspective reveals her intent to find order within the chaos of life, a theme she explores in her work. For her, art is a way to navigate the space where chaos and order coexist, constantly shifting and influencing one another. This ongoing exploration is evident in “Thought Feel,” where the fluidity of paint and form captures the transient nature of thought and emotion.
Simultaneously, Maridee works on smaller drawings on paper, often intricate pen and ink creations. These drawings, produced during a seven-year period of intense productivity, serve as the foundation for her quest to maintain innocence and spontaneity. Through these works, she delves into the complexity of human emotions, tracking the myriad feelings that surface each day. These early drawings are not just studies; they are an essential part of her creative journey, offering a glimpse into the internal processes that fuel her larger works.
As Maridee continues to progress as an artist, she has begun transforming these delicate drawings into large-scale pigment prints. This transition allows her to share the intimate details of her inner world on a grander scale, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the emotions and thoughts that drive her creativity. By scaling up these intricate pieces, Maridee offers a deeper connection to her work, encouraging viewers to experience the same sense of wonder and introspection that she does.
For Maridee, art is not just about creating visual beauty; it is about making sense of the journey through life. Her work reflects her ongoing search for the “glue” that unifies each moment in time, a quest that is ever-changing as her perception evolves. Through her art, Maridee invites others to join her in this exploration, to see the world through her eyes and to find their own meaning within the chaos and order of existence.
In “Thought Feel,” as in all of her work, Maridee Hays demonstrates her commitment to exploring the depths of human experience. Her art is a living, breathing entity, constantly adapting and growing as she continues to explore new ways of seeing and understanding the world. Through her unique blend of disciplines and her dedication to her craft, Maridee creates works that resonate with the viewer on a profound level, offering a window into the complex interplay between thought, feeling, and the ever-changing nature of life.
