Elaine Henry Dawson was raised on a small farm on Missionary Ridge outside of Chattanooga, TN. She studied business and accounting at the University of Chattanooga before building a successful career as the Business Manager for a national software company in Memphis, TN. In 2002, Elaine began fulfilling her lifelong dream of becoming an artist like so many in her family before her. For the next four years, she studied under the nationally-recognized watercolor artist, Fred Rawlinson with Atelier Studio and Gallery, Germantown, TN. In 2006, Elaine retired from the business world early so she could pursue her passion for art full time. She and her husband relocated to the southern side of Lookout Mountain in northeast Alabama where she opened a studio in her home. With six acres overlooking the bluff, 14 goats that maintain her Lookout Mountain property, and scenic views of Weiss Lake and the Blue Ridge Mountains, Elaine has an endless supply of inspiration.
Elaine’s passion is watercolor—the spontaneity of it is pure fascination. She also works with acrylics, pen and ink, and pastels. Her painting style ranges from impressionistic realism to abstract realism. Her subject matter includes flora, animals, nature, landscapes, and people. Each piece begins with a value study followed by a detailed drawing. But once the paintbrush touches the page, the painting intuitively takes on a life of its own.
Fred Rawlinson taught her that "the flame of art is a personal flame – a fire that burns first inside". Elaine’s personal flame is fanned by the tremendous satisfaction she receives from pleasing her clients, patrons, and viewers.
Elaine’s paintings have been exhibited and sold in national and regional juried shows, including the Brooks Museum Designer & Artist Exhibition, and West Court Artist Gallery. She also does commissioned work and has donated paintings to various non-profit organizations.
