DPW Spotlight Interview: Mary Anne Cary

Each week we will spotlight a different DPW artist who will give away one of their best paintings.

To enter to win Mary Anne's painting, "Summer Marsh" go to Daily Paintworks and click on the link at the top of the page announcing their interview.

From Mary Anne's DPW Gallery page:

I am a pastel and oil painter living in Cape Elizabeth Maine. A former graphic artist, I now try to devote my time to painting. I am inspired by the Maine coast and landscape, and I strive to capture everyday scenes with a fresh vision and energy.

I find that, living in Maine, I am supplied with endless possibilities for paintings. I see intriguing studies every time I take a drive, whether down the street or up the coast. I love having my camera ready to record the many compositions and ideas I see around me. I have attended workshops with local and nationally recognized artists and I enter regional juried art shows.

Tell us a bit about how you first started painting.

I attended art school and received a degree in Visual Design, which was basically graphic art and commercial print design. I had classes in that discipline including typography, photography, and color. For electives, I did some drawing and pottery, but no painting. After college, I worked in the advertising and printing industry. When I married and was at home with small children, I took some adult classes in watercolor on and off for a couple of years.

Summer Marsh
(click to see original image)

Enter to win by clicking on the link at the top of the home page announcing Mary Anne's interview.

Did you have any stops and starts in your painting career?

The adult classes were not consistent, and a little frustrating when you can't devote enough time to the learning process. I also think watercolor is difficult in that it is not too forgiving; it does not leave a lot of room for correcting mistakes. So through the years of child rearing and working part time, I dabbled in a few more artistic endeavors, unable to stay away from doing something creative.

What mediums and genres have you experimented with?

Along the way, I took a workshop in pastel and continued with that medium for several years. I love pastels, their richness and versatility. Besides the few adult classes I took, my painting is mostly self taught. After concentrating on pastels and reading and studying other pastel artist's work, I slowly started to display my work and make some sales. That concentration exposed me to oil painting and I became very intrigued by the lushness of oil paintings. Afraid of oils and all the chemicals, I started with acrylics because it seemed much less daunting. Eventually, I gave in when I felt I was unable to get the results I was looking for and tackled oils.

Bee Still
(click to see original image)

Which ones have "stuck" and which ones have fallen away?

The oils started slowly as I was learning on my own, and I found I was thrilled I didn't have to mat and frame every piece. So, even though I feel more comfortable or successful with pastels, I gradually moved away from them. I think I was looser and a bit more creative with pastels. But honestly, I didn't like the pastel dust and the hazards of breathing in those particles that always seemed in the air. I am not the neatest when I am working, and keeping a really clean environment is hard work and a struggle for me. Framing is much easier with oils; I love not having to use glass! So, even though I find oils more difficult, I am happiest working in this medium right now.

Which ones are you looking forward to exploring?

I am taking a workshop in encaustic in a couple weeks. I am intrigued with that process, and I think it will help me with the desire I have had to move in a more abstract style.

Deconstructed Shadows
(click to see original image)

Who or what inspires you most?

I have kindled the fire for creating paintings, so I feel most inspired by my everyday environment. I also love being able to do virtual gallery surfing and to explore other art and artists. Seeing all the talent and genius in the art world gets me revved up to produce my own. Galleries in "real" time along with museums are essential, too. There is nothing like watching how people are affected by art.

What does procrastination look like for you?

Procrastination is in my face everyday, in the form of housework, bills, laundry and grocery shopping. I could go on, but I won't bore you.

Pines and Ocean
(click to see original image)

What techniques work to ensure that you make time for your art?

The technique that has worked best for me was to rent a studio space two and a half years ago. Getting out of the house and having a space to go to, as well as being with other artists, was a positive step. It helped me to believe in myself more and build up a bit of confidence (even though that is still lacking somewhat). I sometimes feel I am not quite ready for prime time!

How do you generally arrive at ideas for your paintings? How do you keep art "fresh?" What techniques have helped you avoid burnout and keep your work vibrant and engaging?

My biggest block is arriving at ideas for my paintings. I have lots and lots of ideas, and that is the problem. I think I am still a work in progress, and struggle to find a style, which in turn holds me back from progressing in the way I should. I am a bit "all over the place"!

Sometimes I will be inspired by something I see and hold onto that idea until I get to the studio, planning it out before I even arrive. I often wonder how other artists arrive at their artistic expression and stick with one genre.

My continual search is to find where my true painter's personal language resides. I think it helps to keep me from burning out and staying somewhat fresh in my mind.

Deconstructed Grass 2
(click to see original image)

What makes you happiest about your art?

I am really happy with my art when I am truly inspired. When I step back from a piece and think, '"it works," I was able to express my feeling.

Thanks, Mary Anne!

© 2014 Sophie Catalina Marine

DPW Spotlight Interview: Dean Shelton

Each week we will spotlight a different DPW artist who will give away one of their best paintings.

To enter to win Dean's painting, "White Hen 2" go to Daily Paintworks and click on the link at the top of the page announcing their interview.

From Dean's DPW Gallery page:

Dean Shelton grew up in Little Rock, Arkansas. Dean admits, "I probably spent time drawing when I should have been focusing on other subjects". His mother always encouraged him in his art and ordered a Famous Artist Course to help develop his artistic talents. His high school did not have an art curriculum and he did not have much interest in school. He entered the Navy just before his 18th birthday. (click to read more)

Tell us a bit about how you first started painting.

For as long as I can remember, I have liked to draw. When I was in third grade, everyone did a drawing for a class project. The teachers picked the best drawing and I didn't win. That is when I decided to get better. Growing up, I didn't know anyone who was an artist. When I was in seventh grade, the teacher that taught mechanical drawing had a Thursday night art club. I loved it and soaked up everything.

Did you have any stops and starts in your painting career?

When I got out of high school, I joined the Navy for three years. I didn't do much drawing and had not started painting yet. I enrolled in college using the GA Bill. When looking through the catalog, the only area that I saw where I had any chance of getting a degree was art. The first painting I ever did was a portrait of my mother done in acrylics. I thought it was terrible, but my mother hung it in her living room and it hung there for decades!

White Hen 2
(click to see original image)

Enter to win by clicking on the link at the top of the home page announcing Dean's interview.

During my last year of college, Steven Naegle introduced me to watercolors. He was one of the best painters in both watercolor and oil that I had ever seen. He strongly influenced my painting style even to this day.

My wife and I got married during college and after graduation we went to California where I attended the Art Center College of Design in Los Angeles. Even though I took painting classes in college, I made the decision to become an illustrator and attending the Art Center helped further my career.

What mediums and genres have you experimented with?

During my career as an illustrator, I used almost every medium except oils. This was because of the short deadlines.

The Old Zinc Mine
(click to see original image)

Which ones have "stuck" and which ones have fallen away?

Watercolors have stuck with me since I began in college. When I made the shift away from illustration, I started working more with oils. I still use most mediums, but some more than others.

Who or what inspires you most?

I've always been inspired by the great illustrators Bernie Fuchs, Bob Peak, Mark English and Norman Rockwell. As for fine artists, I've always liked the paintings of Andrew Wyeth and Richard Schmid.

Dirt Bike
(click to see original image)

What does procrastination look like for you?

When I have too many things to do, I find myself just thinking about each one of them. I just have to stop thinking and start working on something.

What techniques work to ensure that you make time for your art?

As a freelance illustrator, I worked out of a studio in my house. As a fine artist, I have just continued to work on my art almost every day.

Signs of Life
(click to see original image)

How do you generally arrive at ideas for your paintings?

I'm always looking for subject matter to paint. I usually carry my camera and sketch book. I am a member of the Chestnut Group who are plein air painters promoting land conservation. We are invited to paint many historic and interesting sites.

How do you keep art "fresh?" What techniques have helped you avoid burnout and keep your work vibrant and engaging?

I joined DPW so I would try new techniques and paint something everyday. Hopefully, this will help me grow as a painter.

New Day
(click to see original image)

What do you feel you are learning about right now as an artist?

When I first started painting in oils, I read books and watched demonstration videos. I've watched painters on PBS and taken workshops. One of the hardest things I've had to learn as an oil painter, is how to paint wet on wet on a canvas. After watching others and doing a lot of painting, I finally learned how to that, but I'm still learning.

What makes you happiest about your art?

I'm happy when I start a new painting. I'm happy when I finish a painting. I'm happy to know there is no end to growing as an artist. I'm happy when I see someone who has grown as an artist and is painting beautiful art!

Thanks, Dean!

© 2014 Sophie Catalina Marine

DPW Spotlight Interview: Vincenza Harrity

Each week we will spotlight a different DPW artist who will give away one of their best paintings.

To enter to win Vincenza's painting, "Winter Out My Window" go to Daily Paintworks and click on the link at the top of the page announcing their interview.

From Vincenza's DPW Gallery page:

Vincenza Harrity is an artist who lives in Cleveland. Formally trained in fashion illustration, she has always sought to develop her skills as a painter with classes and workshops. For more than 10 years, she has focused on capturing essences of objects and landscapes through still life and en plein air using oils. Her work has been displayed and sold in galleries and exhibitions throughout Ohio and Kentucky.

Tell us a bit about how you first started painting.

I had studied to be a Fashion Illustrator when I was younger. After raising my family I wanted to paint. That was about 13 years ago, however my move to Cleveland really got me going and raised the artistic bar.

Winter Out My Window
(click to see original image)

Enter to win by clicking on the link at the top of the home page announcing Vincenza's interview.

Did you have any stops and starts in your painting career?

Life can get busy for me. I'll take a break from painting, but its not long before I feel my studio or an outing to paint "en plein air" calling me.

What mediums and genres have you experimented with?

I've tried pastels, acrylics and watercolor, however, I always go back to oils. I really just focus on landscape. Occasionally, for fun, using colored pencils, I'll design a label for my friends craft beer.

Snowy Birch Trees
(click to see original image)

Which ones have "stuck" and which ones have fallen away?

Right now, I'm only interested in working in oil. I love the way it moves on the canvas and the colors I can mix.

Who or what inspires you most?

The beauty around me is what inspires me most often. I've also had a lot of opportunity to travel and see great art and beautiful vistas that add to my drive and inspiration. As well as having the privilege to paint "en plein air" along side some great artists here in Northeast Ohio. They often inspire and spur me on to be better.

Brecksville Path
(click to see original image)

What does procrastination look like for you?

I can easily get distracted from painting when I find other projects to do. However, I've come to realize that procrastination is often fear. Afraid that I can't really make that painting sitting in my studio better, so procrastination is what I'll do.

What techniques work to ensure that you make time for your art?

I try to have a plan in place for each day, being flexible as different things come up. Being flexible I think is important because if I'm not, frustration can be a greater obstacle to creativity then procrastination. I also paint with a group of artists each week while weather permits en plein air.

San Francisco Bay
(click to see original image)

How do you generally arrive at ideas for your paintings?

I see something in the landscape that catches my eye and imagination. It could be a vast field, a barn in the distance, the swaying of some trees, reflections on the water or a strike of light on the grass or snow.

How do you keep art "fresh?" What techniques have helped you avoid burnout and keep your work vibrant and engaging?

I like to look at other artists work, from the old masters to local artists and everything in between, there is a lot a good art out there. Going to workshops and watching instructional DVDs also help.

Tor Bay
(click to see original image)

What do you feel you are learning about right now as an artist?

I am working on just being better. Also, creating a mood or emotion in my art.

What makes you happiest about your art?

When I've succeeded in creating that mood by capturing the light of that moment.

Thanks, Vincenza!

© 2014 Sophie Catalina Marine

DPW Spotlight Interview: Peter Lee

Each week we will spotlight a different DPW artist who will give away one of their best paintings.

To enter to win Peter's painting, "Chilling Out #2" go to Daily Paintworks and click on the link at the top of the page announcing his interview.

From Peter's DPW Gallery page:

I'm a full-time artist specialized in oil. I try not to limit my subject matters, entertaining myself with different challenges. I can't imagine my life without painting. "I create to survive and survive to create." Most of my paintings are for sale. For more info: email me at peterleeartist@yahoo.com

Tell us a bit about how you first started painting.

Probably, most people go all the way back to their toddler era for this question, and I'm not an exception. To my memory, I painted first when I was four, and it was a mural on the wall in my room with crayons. More serious painting started when I was in junior high - I loved watercolor then. And as I moved to high school, I spent more time on watercolor, getting some recognitions from my teachers and regional competitions.

Did you have any stops and starts in your painting career?

After graduating from high school, I shifted my focus on "getting a job and making money". So I chose an engineer as my career, receiving my degree in a university and working in a company. And my interest in painting seems to become a distant memory in the deep bottom of my head. Then one day after many years, I was browsing in a bookstore, and I could not leave my eyes off an image of a watercolor painting on an art magazine. Suddenly, my long forgotten passion for watercolor came back like magic, and soon I found myself painting watercolor whenever I had free time.

Chilling Out #2
(click to see original image)

Enter to win by clicking on the link at the top of the home page announcing Peter's interview.

What mediums and genres have you experimented with?

After spending considerable time of my early life on watercolor, I was getting little bored with painting on paper. So past ten years, I've been exploring canvas painting medium such as oil and acrylic. I prefer oil for its warmth, flexibility and richness. I have been trying many different genres - still life, landscapes, figures and portraits, etc. I've been attracted to cityscapes recently since I would like to capture slices of "real life" happening around me.

Which ones have "stuck" and which ones have fallen away?

I am not into making "Hallmark card-like" paintings whether they are flowers, still lives or landscapes. Usually they are too pretty or too cute to my taste. I also don't feel to follow Thomas Kinkade's style - sorry, Thomas. it's just too commercial-looking to me. I'm also not so inclined to "photo-realistic" painting style - we have a camera (and now iphone) for it. I would like to develop into more "painterly" style, showing some bold brushstrokes such as works by many impressionists, some modern expressionists, and contemporaries like Jennifer McChristian, Tibor Nagy, and Carol Marine.

The Corner Cafe
(click to see original image)

Which ones are you looking forward to exploring?

Although I'm open to all different styles and genres, at this moment, I am more focused on painting cityscapes in oil with more impressionistic style. I don't have any set of rules, and I try not to limit myself to certain boundaries. I'll just let my "creative juice" to flow and see what happens. And more importantly, I would like to enjoy myself while exploring all the possibilities rather than torturing myself to produce "perfect" masterpieces to please other people.

Who or what inspires you most?

As I mentioned earlier, works with more painterly style and bold brushstrokes appeal to me the most. But regardless of mediums, styles or genres, artists never fail to grab my attention as long as I see and feel their "hearts" in their paintings.

Pasta for Dinner
(click to see original image)

What does procrastination look like for you?

Joining Daily Paintworks has been one of the best decisions that I have ever made in my life since it gives me enough pressure and motivation to keep myself painting as much and as often as I can. I see some artists keep uploading their works on a daily basis, matching to the name and intention of this site. I just admire their dedication and commitment. Somehow, I spend quite a bit of time researching my subject matters, gathering reference photos, and pre-designing my paintings even before I physically touch my canvas. So I just can't make a painting overnight. But I keep wanting to upload and share my paintings as often as I can. Again, it's so great to have a vehicle like DPW where I can upload and show my paintings almost instantly so easy!

What techniques work to ensure that you make time for your art?

Receiving the DPW email containing the day's new paintings everyday works better than any technique for me. It's just a great reminder to wake up and paint each and everyday - setting aside certain hours for nothing else but just painting.

Squeezed Out One More Time
(click to see original image)

How do you generally arrive at ideas for your paintings?

Since I've been focusing on cityscape painting, everything I see everywhere I go is an idea for another painting. Nowadays it's so each to capture the moments with my smartphone camera. These snapshots are major source materials for my cityscape paintings.

How do you keep art "fresh?" What techniques have helped you avoid burnout and keep your work vibrant and engaging?

Whenever I feel little bored or burnt out, I browse other artists' works including those on the DPW site. Then I feel refreshed and re-motivated, and I see my newly charged energy reflected on my painting.

The Swimmer
(click to see original image)

What do you feel you are learning about right now as an artist?

As an artist, I think I keep learning how to find a beauty that would been ignored without an artist's eye. I appreciate more of what I see around me. People walking on the street, waiting at the bus stop, reading a newspaper while drinking a coffee, or even cars jammed in traffic can be beautiful to my artist's eye. All of sudden, the whole world is just beautiful!

What makes you happiest about your art?

I feel happy as I paint. The sheer process of drawing lines, mixing colors, feeling the touch of my brush on the canvas, etc. make me happy. I also feel happy when my wife and daughter make compliments as they see my finished painting. Of course, when someone buys my painting, it makes me happy - not just for the money but for her/his recognition. They are all different kinds of happiness about my art, and each feeling is unique and hard to compare one another. I think what makes me happiest is the fact that I can spend my time creating something that I like. For this, I feel not only "happiest" but also "luckiest".

Thanks, Peter!

© 2014 Sophie Marine