SANDRA WARD

Currently residing in Mount Lebanon, PA, British born artist Sandra Ward has been working in a variety of media. The focus of her work continues to be buildings and the inhabitants of urban scenes. The inspiration has come from the three countries in which she has lived; England, South Africa and the U.S.A. This has led to many different experiences; each of which has influ- enced her work. London buildings are still a great source of ideas, complimented by those of Philadelphia (her previous USA base) and now the architecture of Pittsburgh and the vitality and colors of New York.

Inspiration can come from an unusual viewpoint, contrast of texture and light between buildings or even a window or doorway. Some work is large; some is small scale; the creative process dictating the medium - oil, colored pencil, pen and ink or digital. Whatever is necessary to express the idea - though oils remain her primary vehicle of expression. Her use of diverse media enables great versatility and creativity in exploring the urban scenes that continue to be her main area of concentration.

Sandra is a graduate of the School of Art, Rhodes University, South Africa. During this time she was a member of the “Grahamstown Group” and took part in many of their exhibitions. On returning to the U.K. Sandra undertook study in various printmaking techniques at Durham University. Since her arrival in the U.S.A. (while living in Philadelphia) she pursued her interest in printmaking and extended this to computer graphics. Sandra has become intrigued with the new and innovative technique made available by the computer. This new medium has enabled her to explore both past and present experiences in a way never
before possible.

Sandra developed and taught an art program at the Community Conservatory of Music in Doylestown, Bucks Co., PA. She has been arts coordinator for summer camps, art teacher for the Central Bucks school district and judge for a number of art award programs. Sandra was a volunteer instructor for the visually challenged art programs at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Since arriving in Pittsburgh Sandra has remained active in the arts community. She served as a judge for the Hoover Elementary Schools art program and has supported many local fundraising programs. Sandra has established a studio in Mt. Lebanon which serves not only as primary location for continuing her personal work, but also as a location for teaching adults and children. She also teaches away from the studio at such locations as the McMurray Art League.