I have been making art since I was little.  I use old photographs as source material: some found, some of people I know. I like to use painting as a means of relating to people and studying human relationships and emotions. Being that I am also an actor, studying others and their situation in life interests me, I use painting as a means to experience connection with others and to reach a deeper understanding of myself and my subjects. 

My work has developed through years of drawing people. I recently learned renaissance methods of portraiture from Paul Missal at Pacific Northwest College of Art which has further enhanced my skills. 

I went to Sarah Lawrence College in Bronxville, NY and graduated in 2002 and now I live back in my hometown, Portland, OR, where I have been for the last 9 years. I have also lived in Queens, NY,  Florence, Italy and Florence, Oregon where the cover painting (my grandmother) was completed. 

I do acting in independent films and plays. 

My work can also be viewed here: 

http://genevievemercatante.blogspot.com/