Patrice Drago is an artist, columnist and curator, and an Artist in Residence at Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts. Beginning as an abstract expressionist at age 14 painting with house paint on sheets tacked to a wall, she eventually moved on to all other media, spending years painting realistically in oil. Currently working by commission, she creates large energetic and dynamic abstracts, serene and quiet color field paintings, and playful small animal paintings. Her work varies in style, but there is always a constant theme of vivid color, sharp contrast and lightness of spirit.

"Vibrant color, interesting shapes and lots of texture move my creative soul. I love creating layers with paint over paint, overlapping paper, and carving and drawing into the paint to create a rich sub-surface that allows for new discoveries with every viewing. I am drawn to blues and greens because they are prevalent in nature, and are both soothing and refreshing.”

"Rather than make a direct social statement, the purpose of my work is to feel and share joy. I am steadfast in my belief that beauty as a goal is an expression of love and is equally as important as a provocative statement of social consciousness. It soothes the soul and opens the heart, allowing us to be more conscious in the world. Humor is medicine for whatever ails the spirit. When the work comes from a joyous place, it carries through to the viewer. It is my way of sharing joy with others."