Within Reach: An Artist Talk with Patricia Orellana

Join exhibiting artist Patricia Orellana for a conversation about the stories, ideas, and creative process behind her evocative paintings.
About this Event

Hear from exhibiting artist Patricia Orellana in a conversation about the stories, ideas, and creative process behind her evocative paintings. The program opens with a curator's introduction by Greg Robinson, followed by a conversation with BIMA's Associate Curator Dasha Moore and Director of Learning & Engagement Jenna d'Anna.

With a background in illustration, Orellana approaches each painting through narrative, allowing stories, symbolism, and imagination to guide her work. A longtime student of Charles Emerson at Gage Academy, she continually challenges herself by exploring new subjects, experimenting with new media, and embracing emerging technologies as creative tools. Using Adobe Photoshop, Procreate, and Adobe Firefly, she develops visual ideas through AI-assisted prompting, integrating contemporary digital processes into her artistic practice while remaining deeply rooted in painting.

Discover how Patricia Orellana balances traditional techniques with innovation, creating richly layered works that offer a dynamic visual experience. Audience Q&A and reception to follow the talk.

Guest bio - Patricia Orellana:

Patricia Orellana's journey into the art world started at a very young age in Jersey City, NJ, with endless drawings on walls and coloring her patent leather shoes, much to her mother's frustration. She lived two brief years in Medellin, Colombia as a young child, an experience that would influence her and her work once back in the United States.

She earned her B.F.A from the School of Visual Arts in Manhattan, which is where she also had the opportunity to study Art Therapy. She was able to see first hand the power of art in healing through Art Therapy internships in Manhattan and New Jersey. Orellana relocated to the Pacific Northwest in 1992 and worked in the graphic arts for local corporations. She completed the EDGE Program through the Artist Trust and she continues to grow in the local arts community. Orellana is an artist who currently resides and works on Bainbridge Island.

Guest website/social:

https://www.patriciaorellana.com

BIMA’s PRISM programming is where art comes alive, off the walls and onto the stage. From films and concerts to artist talks and community celebrations, PRISM expands what it means to be an art museum through regular, engaging live events on BIMA’s stage, in its galleries, and outside the museum.