Raised and educated in Salt Lake City, Utah, Irene Rampton enjoyed 7th through 12th grades at Highland High School, attended University of Utah, graduated with honors from Utah Technical College with a degree in Commercial Art. Later her studies included figure painting, conception, and portrait work. Her career as a freelance artist has allowed her to develop an abundance of styles and techniques to fulfill client expectations. Irene has capitalized on that experience to create refreshing and unique fine art. Irene Is Represented by Phillips Gallery, SLC, UT.

[ S T A T E M E N T ]

I am fortunate to have been able to draw at an early age. I was in the 1st grade when I started drawing ladies in long, flowing dresses. I thought of each of them as a princess. As a freelance artist, I spent years painting what others requested when what I longed to do was paint women in my own stylized way. In pursuit of that goal, I took my sketchbook and drawing tools and began visiting coffee-houses, shopping areas, bookstores, etc. I often find someone I want to paint while I’m gadding about. I try to sketch or take photos on the spot. These photos and sketches act as an example of gestures, expressions, and personality, rather than providing me with a particular person to paint. My intent is to paint (in my style) an idea or circumstance in which ordinary people might find themselves. Often my sense of humor shows up as well. I enjoy making up stories about the ladies in my paintings. An essential part of my art is choosing the titles. They are an important component. I intend for them to have meaning or purpose. I hope my paintings bring out a recollection or memory for the viewer that is relatable and perhaps endearing.