Tracy Boyd – Into the Wild: Paintings on Reclaimed TarpsOctober 10 – November 9, 2013

Tracy Boyd’s choice to work on large materials previously used to cover machinery, tools and engines has set her apart. The aged, weathered tarp has had a life prior to her getting her hands on it. She made it her mission to honor, expand and expose the material, creating specific portraits and scenes of animals; some solid, some unstable, representing strength, weakness and the unfair power hierarchy within our society. As the artist and others have stated, photos of the work can’t do it justice… the work has a presence, hitting all of your senses… and is uniquely memorable.

Tracy developed her ability to be an independent and introspective painter growing up on a 66-acre old farm outside of Philadelphia. While working toward her BFA in Design at Carnegie Mellon, she consistently studied painting yet made the decision to move into the emerging technology field. Upon obtaining her degree, while also receiving her US Army Officer Reserve Commission, she lived in various areas of the country including Atlanta, Chicago, San Francisco and ultimately Seattle where she has been for the past 13 years.

Tracy began to aggressively pursue painting in the 1990’s and 2000’s, moving from the basement and garage of her home to a dedicated studio space in the industrial district of Seattle. In the coming years, she was selected to exhibit solo shows and participated in multiple group shows. She also now participates in pivotal developments within the community, focusing on fundraising, education and collaborative forums with fellow artists.

Her work has been featured on Seattle Channel’s Art Zone with Nancy Guppy, A Girl on a Mission TV and earlier this year in an article by Vanguard Seattle. Her original and fearless style of painting is attributed to her drive to reach goals, challenge thought and emotion, and break new ground.