Gitta Pfahl

Artist Bio

I grew up in the city of Cologne, Germany. Already as a small child I knew exactly that I wanted to be some kind of artist. I used any free moment to draw whereever I was.

Later, when it came to my advanced education, I was lucky as there was an art academy in my hometown; but I had to pass a 3 day talent test. I was fortunate , I passed (only 45 out of 250 were chosen) and alas my art education took its course. Since I didn't want to become a starving artist I specialized in graphic arts and illustration. After 4 years there and obtaining my Bachelor, I worked as a graphic artist for 4 years at one of Germany's biggest department stores: Kaufhof.

Then, a big change, I married a scientist who needed to spread his wings in the US. With our little daughter we moved to Solana Beach in 1973, and we still are there 39 years later.

In the 90s I picked up the water color media; before I took some refresher courses at the Mira Costa College in life drawing and for the first time in water color with Chris Nugent. Later I studied with Diane Adams. That was the beginning of my water media career.

We travel a lot all over the world to far away places and continents (Africa, Asia , Europe) and I always make sure to have my camera ready to shoot, so I always can use my very own source material, mostly through my photos.

We also own a ranch in Mexico- way out in some beautiful countryside - with many different animals, fowl, sheep, horses and dogs to name a few.

I am always ready to activate my camera when I am there, to catch inspiring moments.

Artist Statement

Though I have painted since many years, I only recently joined the Coal Gallery after a friend urged me to show my paintings to the public. Previously I have sold quite a few of my paintings to friends and neighbors and sometimes I have done commissions. My work appears to be appreciated, I have received already 4 awards since the short time I joined and couldn't be more pleased. That has turned on my competitive juices and I am eager to paint more and bring a new painting every month.