Summer 2025

62 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • S U M M E R 2 0 2 5 A nn Artz’s business card states her occupation as “creative type.” Simple, direct and a perfect description. This Carmel painter works in a cozy, light-filled downtown studio, bringing her semi- abstract works to vibrant life. “I often begin my work with a charcoal sketch composition,” she says. Tacked to her wall is a series of images delineating the evolution of one of her paintings—while there are similarities between the first and last, they have obviously undergone major renovations. “I start finding shapes within the original idea, adding and taking things away until I arrive at a point where I think ‘Ah. That’s it.’” Typically, she finishes each piece with pencil lines on top of the paint, either oil or acrylic. Artz (yes, that’s her real name) began her career as a graphic designer, both freelance and with design firms. She created the logo the Monterey Peninsula Foundation still uses and did some work for the AT&T Pro-Am. While still doing design work, she devotes most of her time to fine art. Artz also gives back to her community as an active member of the Carmel Art Association (where she has two shows this fall) and as an online mentor to aspiring painters. For more information on Ann Artz, her work and upcoming exhibitions, visit www.annatrtz.com . — Michael Chatfield ART I ST PROF I L E Ann Ar tz Photo: Kelli Uldall