“Wild-West” by Amy Guidry, courtesy of the artist
Of all the young up-and-coming artists I have seen in recent years, Amy Guidry is one of the most auspicious. A resident of Lafayette, Louisiana, this artist exhibits in galleries and museums across the USA.
Her work has been described as surrealism, but I think that categorization alone is inadequate. Surrealism has become a blanket term for a clever painting with a tricky composition. I have seen it written that surrealism seeks to resolve contradictory conditions between dream and reality; and while Guidry’s paintings often seem quite dreamlike, they are indeed more a statement of her reality than her dreams. So in that sense the artist’s style speaks more to the roots and beginnings of true surrealism.
“Dichotomy” by Amy Guidry, photo courtesy of the artist
Amy’s paintings explore how humans interact with each other and with animals and nature. Her themes are palpable and sometimes quite confrontational. But these are not simply ploys to engage the viewer. She expresses her beliefs with her craft.
Her paintings are distinct and recognizable. She categorizes her work into series (In Our Veins, New Realm, and Beneath the Surface) and each painting continues the narrative within its series. The common theme between the series conveys respect for nature and humanity.
The artist is talented, intelligent, engaging, and quite beautiful. Her self-portrait is a recurring element in the New Realm series.
Amy Guidry & Troy Broussard, Gallery 912, Lafayette – photo by Zach Guidry
She is also a vegetarian, in case you could not tell from her work. It isn’t easy to find vegetarian cuisine in Louisiana but I’ve shared a few meals with her and husband Zach. She knows several places off the beaten path where she can find a meal free of meat and preservatives.
Amy’s important works are an investment—a major piece might cost $4,000 or more. But not every painting is “sofa size”. Her smaller works can still be had for $200 to $400, so collectors with a smaller purse have not yet missed the boat. I am lucky enough to own a piece, a small New Realm painting depicting a red snapper sprouting from earth like a cabbage. And I am considering another purchase this fall while I can still afford her…
Amy has an excellent website which she keeps up to date with paintings and press. She publicizes her exhibits but pieces can also be purchased directly from her site.