
Pinkham’s current series of abstract paintings in mixed media and acrylic on canvas are inspired by natural forms and in particular, the ocean. They exhibit her dexterous understanding of color and quality of line, and achieve continuity between seemingly disparate painting styles.
The freedom with which Pinkham’s hand moves through the composition of a painting draws on the intellectual split between seeing and rendering inherent in the practice of abstract expressionism. However, Pinkham breathes new life into blocks of color and scratchy patches with gradations and shadows. The suggestion of a third dimension imbues her abstract elements with vague objecthood. The effect is entirely surreal, giving gestures volume, flat areas depth and morphing impulsive shapes into personalities. Emotionally, Pinkham’s paintings are representations of objects which could never exist.