A Dialogue with Creative Coworking
As we approach the opening of September 2016 Wine & Art Night at Creative Coworking, I would like to present a condensed version of the artist interview they did with me. I thought the questions were quite thoughtful, so here goes:
What sparked your initial interest in creating art?
I have been drawing and making things since I was young child. Luckily, I had parents that encouraged my creativity.
How would you describe your style?
For each art print, I blend my own painting and photography into a digital collage. In my current series, an imaginary beach is populated by starfish, sand dollars, sea urchins and seashells. In this invented world, vivid color drawn from my acrylic painting and resembling the northern lights, flows across these sea creatures.
Who are your influences?
Early in my college art education, I attended a large exhibit of the paper cut-out collages of French artist, Henri Matisse. I was struck by the bright color, movement and fanciful composition of his dancers, leaves and sea creatures. I also very much appreciate the close-up, stylized interpretations of nature by painter Georgia O’Keeffe.
What are your opinions on the Evanston/Chicago art community? How do you see your work in relation to this community?
The Evanston/Chicago art community is vibrant and varied. Additionally, I experience the Evanston art community in particular as friendly and welcoming of local talent. I am honored to be part of this community and exhibiting at Creative Coworking.
Do you have any upcoming exhibitions/plans/projects?
I would love to exhibit in a traditional or alternative health care center. Viewers have observed that my work has a calming and meditative quality.
Are there particular motifs/themes/symbols that you are fond of using in your work?
I am drawn to curvilinear forms found in nature. These can be seashells/waves, botanical forms or clouds. I often add a patterning motif to create movement and visual excitement.
View the entire interview here.
