​ 

Diane Guarino grew up and lived most of her life in Vermont before retiring from her career in education, and moving to Rockport, Massachusetts. Her parents, both talented artists and creators themselves, encouraged her curiosity, creativity, and love of the natural world. She began drawing, painting, and exploring fiber arts from a young age, always seeking out artistic education in formal and informal settings. She uses a variety of techniques, but primarily favors water-based media for her work. Whether in the soulful eyes of an animal, the distinctive light of a forest in autumn, or the movement of waves on a rocky shore, her work combines realism with the imaginative sense of wonder and whimsy.

​

Artist’s statement: Much of my work is drawn from my experiences in nature and with animals, where I feel calm and inspired. Even as a child, I was drawn to a sense of the miraculous details in the world around me. This now finds expression in an affinity for contemplative practices that inform my approach to my work as I pay attention to the surprising moments when inspiration emerges, oftentimes unexpectedly. During my creative process, I strive to capture a combination of energy, wonder, and peaceful calm that is inspired by the world around me. I sincerely hope that my work evokes a sense of emotion, story, and wonder for the viewer.