A State of Thirst by Angela Greene

©2025 Angela Greene
Please do not use image without permission from the artist.

40″ x 30″
Oil on Canvas
In Collaboration with Geoffrey Siemering, Outreach Specialist, UW-Madison

Growing up in San Diego, I have witnessed California’s relentless struggle with drought and wildfires. This year, as flames once again engulfed the land, I felt the same heartbreak I’ve known for years. The repeated phrase—not enough water to fight the fires—echoed like a haunting refrain, unchanged after 24 years.

In my painting, I use fabric as a landscape, its folds forming small pools of water to symbolize the state’s inescapable drought. As an oil painter drawn to realism and the fluidity of fabric, I find it a perfect medium to represent land without distraction. My work aims to evoke thought—how can a planet covered in 71% water still leave California parched? This piece is my love letter to my hometown, a visual narrative of urgency and awareness. I create to make people think, feel, and remember—because some stories deserve to make an impact that is unforgettable.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Hi, my name is Angela Greene and I am an oil painter and ceramicist. I was born and raised in San Diego California. My creative journey started at my performing arts middle school and there I experienced my first art class and my love for drawing, which quickly progressed into painting. Years down the road, I attended San Diego Mesa community college where I gravitated towards charcoal art and was introduced to acrylic and a variety of other mediums. It wasn’t until I moved to Racine, Wisconsin and began my journey at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside that I was introduced to oil paint and I completely fell in love. I find inspiration from the greats such as Michelangelo, Caravaggio, and many more. It is always my goal to incorporate feelings of comfort, nostalgia, and emotion in everything I create. I’m looking forward to more artistic challenges in the future.

Instagram: @classastudio25

ABOUT THE WATER PARTNER

Geoffrey Siemering

MADE POSSIBLE THROUGH SUPPORT FROM