Artist’s Statement and Biography

Sharon C. Bechtold – Pyrographer

“Every slice of wood hides an image within its grain waiting to be revealed.

Pyrography is a metaphor for life, the creation of art using a natural process and surface is a reflection of the cycle of life itself. The burning of the wood- destruction or death - gives birth to new life - in an image.

Each piece of wood is unique. Its own history told within each line of grain and ring marking the passage of time. The grain pattern itself whispers possibilities for a painting. The burning instruments range from the open flame of a blow torch to various heated metal surfaces, soldering irons, and burning blades. Transparent watercolor washes are used in conjunction with natural oil based wood stains to enhance the image while allowing the grain and character of the wood to remain prominent.

The pyrographic process itself is a highly sensual experience. The smell of burning wood relaxes the mind and body. Fast burns contrast with slow burns trailing whisps of smoke. Texture created by the burning adds a tactile aspect to the artwork. A delicate dance between the artist, materials, tools and process ends in the final orchestration of image.

As a third generation artist Sharon grew up around a variety of art materials, tools and the encouragement that have been instrumental to her development. After completing studies in commercial art, fine art, and photography, Sharon worked as a graphic designer in the family business. Her oil paintings, watercolors, and pyrographs, have won numerous awards and been represented by galleries throughout the Chicago area. Since 1988 she has taught art both at the adult level and children’s classes. During the last 7 years she has devoted herself exclusively to Pyrography, developing her own unique style, based on classical art principles, in order to render a realistic image guided by inspiration.

“Woodburning is … an echo of time, …a whisper of all that lives, …a memory of all that dies.” Sharon Bechtold