Annie Haslam
For those unaquainted with Annie Haslam, she has been the vocalist for the band Renaissance since the early 70s, a solo artist, and a guest vocalist on several other projects by very talented musicians. Her angelic voice fills the listener with joy and soaring emotion. It's been extremely fulfilling work for her, and she continues a bond with her fans today. More bio information is at her website
My thoughts here go beyond her obvious talents as a singer. I've loved all genres of music and diverse artists and bands all my life, but... If I was asked who I loved the most... in a second, and without missing a beat, I'd say Annie.
I love her career so far, and certainly feature it constantly, but I'd like to share "now" with you as well. In the late Spring of 2002 Annie developed a love for oil painting. But this was more than just a passing fancy. In the 3 years that have passed, Annie's love for painting and constant inspirations has produced close to 400 paintings! She'll interpret a person's suggested emotion, thought, or memory, onto canvas using her own inner soul. Without interfering, she allows that part of her to "direct" the painting. The result?... a one-of-a-kind, interpreted "image" of thought -- almost as if dreams could be captuerd onto visual medium!
One of Annie's most captivating features is her unmistakable style. Much like her distinctive voice, her paintings also have a signature quality like the works of Roger Dean, who we know from his signature album cover art for Yes, or Paul Whitehead, who did the early Genesis covers. I can't help visualizing album art in the future as done by Annie!
Annie's work has been on display in many galleries including Image Makers Art Gallery Of Stars at 12 W. Mechanic St. in New Hope, Pa. Her paintings are also viewable at her website.