Driving around upstate New York, wandering through woods and along sidewalks, unearthing old photographs or digging in antique shops - this is where I find inspiration for my paintings and drawings. There is beauty and subtle humor in these old trucks and handmade signs, and an appealing sense of familiarity. Painting enables me to bring others inside a particular place in time, whether to imagine a story, appreciate the details, or slip into nostalgic reverie. I think that the time I spend observing and working helps me prolong my experience of these objects and places. I am drawn by the effects of weather, light, love and neglect upon surfaces, and by the textures of rust, wood, and gleaming chrome. I often consider the faded colors of vintage appliances and textiles when mixing my palette.

Most pieces are acrylic on canvas, though some are oil, ink or watercolor. I am gratified by the personal nature of the responses people have had to my work, because I think they understand and share in my affection for the things that I paint.

Erica Hauser has lived in Beacon, NY since early 2007, drawn from New York City by the Hudson Valley's abundance of natural beauty, creative inspiration and sense of community. She received a BFA in Illustration from the School of Visual Arts in 2002 after studying briefly at Cornell University and the Art Students League, and regularly exhibits her paintings and drawings. Galleries have included the Edward Hopper House in Nyack, Washington Square East Gallery, Doma Cafe and PS 122 in NYC, Go North, Mt Beacon Fine Art and b.a.u. in Beacon. She has participated in such projects as Beacon's Windows on Main St 2007 and 2008, the Beekman St Artist Banners, the Open Space Tote Bag show, New Paltz's 2008 COTA Art Fair, Art Along the Hudson, Chris Albert's 2009 For Rent installation in Ellenville; and done local murals and signs, two Valley Table magazine covers and numerous painting commissions for individual clients.

For information about purchasing an available work, or commissions, please email the artist. Many works are also available as economically priced digital prints. Inquiries are welcome. Please do not use images without permission. Thank you.