A strong composition, a harmonious integration of color, the infusion of light into shadow and the quality of air, are all essential ingredients in my paintings. But, what is most important is the concept I want to convey.
Since I was very young, I have been intrigued by the emotions that the interaction of light and shadow stir in me. I found great pleasure looking out of my window, watching the sunlight interfused with the shadows making patterns on the street and buildings of Manhattan where I lived. I experienced a totally different kind of magic when I walked through wooded areas. I was magically transformed by the way the sunlight transfigured the foliage, allowing the light to shimmer and sing in the shadow, adding mystery to the scene.
Although my work is mainly still life, it could be replaced by portraits, figures or landscape—the objects are not as important as the concept that holds the painting together. I respond to the beauty that is transmitted, and I try to capture that beauty as I see it.
Biography
A former professor at the esteemed Fashion Institute of Technology, Jomarie DiIorio began painting in her teens. Born in Manhattan surrounded by all the culture New York has to offer, Jomarie grew up enjoying art, literature, poetry and music. While attending an art high school she realized how much she loved to express herself visually, "I found that watercolor painting and drawing from life came as naturally as breathing. I believed i was destined to do this. Working at what i wanted for my life was a gift. Although, I knew at that time, it was hard for a woman to support herself through her art work. So, i choose to go to a fashion college to supplement my dream."
After college, a career in fashion, marriage and two children, Jomarie decided it was time to get back on track. She registered at the famed Art Students League of New York where she studied with many well known teachers and artists, such as Robert Beverly Hale, Gustav Rehberger and David Leffel; and at the National Academy of Design with Harvey Dinnerstein.
During her time as a student in David Leffel's class, Jomarie realized her love of oil painting and has been working in oils ever since. She was teaching her own classes at F.I.T. during the time she was studying at the League. Believing she was ready, she rented a studio in the well-known artists building, 41 Union Square, where she still maintains a studio today.
Never stopping her desire to learn, she has attended many Art Workshops in Europe and the United States. Her work has been recognized by Art Galleries in Massachusetts and South Hampton, N.Y., where she sold her paintings for many years.