Abbey Messmer was born in Dallas, Texas and currently lives and works in Phoenix, Arizona as a fine artist and programming director at local non-profit Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. Focused primarily in painting, Messmer uses water as a tool to explore varying perspectives and contemplate the nature of reality. Her work aims to echo the inevitable state of flux, corruption, and re-composition we as modern humans endure on the daily.
“Bend Don’t Break Baby”, Gouache and acrylic on paper, 42 x 42
Is there a particular person or school that influenced you to be an artist?
“My high school I.B. art teacher encouraged me to pursue fine arts in college and I actually attended her alma mater.”
What is your favorite medium to use and why?
“I’ve enjoyed using gouache and acrylic the last few years but I really love oils.”
“The Question Will Determine the Answer” Gouache and acrylic on canvas
48 x 64
What is an important memory from your life as an artist?
“One of my most ambitious and memorable projects was my last show at ‘Eyelounge’ where I transformed the gallery into a swimming pool and with the support of artist Mark Hughes, projection-mapped my water film onto the interior surface of the pool.”
What was the inspiration for this piece?
“‘Slowing Down to Speed Up’ was inspired by a book called ‘Island’ by Aldous Huxley”
“Slowing Down to Speed Up”, gouache and acrylic on panel, 24 x 18