Joanna Purvis
Visual Artist + Contemporary Abstract Painter
Joanna Purvis is a Houston-based visual artist whose work explores ideas of happiness, serenity, and the quiet inner world that emerges through the creative process. Guided by instinct and natural impulse, she enters a state beyond everyday reality, allowing each painting to unfold through movement, color, and intuitive response.
Drawing inspiration from nature and Zen philosophy, Purvis blends modern, contemporary, and abstract elements in compositions defined by fluid motion, layered color, and dynamic contrast. Her work reflects a search for stillness and emotional balance while remaining open to spontaneity and transformation.
She works intuitively with ink, acrylic, and water, allowing the materials to flow, merge, and interact directly on the canvas. Rather than imposing a predetermined image, she responds to the behavior of the materials and the rhythm of the painting as it develops.
Through this process, Purvis seeks to express a timeless sense of calm shaped by nature, reflection, and inner awareness. Her paintings invite the viewer to pause, experience the movement of color, and connect with a space of serenity beyond the demands of everyday life.
Education
- Bachelor of Environmental Design – Tsinghua University, Beijing, China, 2004
- English as a Second Language – Guangdong University of Foreign Studies, China, 2001
- Associate Degree in Industrial Design – Tianjin College of Design, China, 1991
- Oil Painting – Tianjin Art & Design University, China, 1989
Professional Experience
PEPS Arts | Owner and Artist
Houston, Texas | April 2023 – Present
- Creates original artwork for commercial and residential design clients.
- Produces portraits and contemporary artwork for individual collectors and private clients.
Unique Arts of Houston | Artist
Houston, Texas | February 2019 – March 2023
- Created custom artwork for interior design clients.
Duck House Gallery | Gallery Assistant and Artist
Corbridge, United Kingdom | July 2018 – 2019
- Worked as a gallery artist.
- Led art workshops for children and adults.
Peck & Company | Drafting and Creative Sales
Houston, Texas | 2015 – 2016
- Worked one-on-one with designers and architects to develop traditional and contemporary furniture, lighting, drapery hardware, and decorative accessories.
Joanna's Catalog
Certificate of Authenticity
All artworks sold through Altar Aqua Studio include a Certificate of Authenticity. The digital certificate is delivered to the buyer’s email once the purchase has been completed with 100% payment, typically within 3-5 business days. The physical certificate can be collected at our studio within 30 business days of purchase.
A Certificate of Authenticity (COA) verifies that the artwork is original and created by the named artist. It includes essential details such as the artist’s name, title, date, medium, and dimensions, and may also include an image of the piece. The COA is signed by the artist or the authorized gallery representing them.