Kristen Reitz-Green discusses her ‘abstract hyper-realistic’ oil painting

Kristen Reitz-Green, a new resident of San Juan Island from Vashon Island, shares her passion for her “abstract hyper-realism” style of oil painting.  The initial subject of her painting was food.  Her current subject is still-life paintings of glass.  She absolutely expects her subjects and her style to continue to evolve and change, and she’s open to exploring a style of complete abstraction, or even sculpture.

Kristen discovered painting just 16 years ago.  She never thought of herself as a painter until she attended an art class with the right teacher.  “I was a blank slate.”

Prior to being a painter, Kristen was a musician (French horn) and a teacher.  She credits her painting skills to a habit of practice, practice, practice that came with being a musician.

She enjoys the comradery at the Friday Harbor Atelier.

Kristen is one of 66 artists from 23 studios who will be on the 2024 San Juan Island Artists’ Studio Tour, June 1st and 2nd.  And she’s part of the Friday Harbor “First Friday Art Walk,” which she had a role in starting in November 2023.  The Art Walks run from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at select locations in Friday Harbor.  Look for the window decal for participating locations.

This CNL2 TV interview is 26-1/2 minutes in duration.