DPW Spotlight Interview: Olga Wagner

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

To enter to win Olga's painting, "Original Contemporary Cow" go to Daily Paintworks and click on the link at the top of the page announcing their interview.

From Olga's DPW Gallery Page:

Olga Wagner, is a North Carolina based artist whose work is held in private collections all over the world. She attributes her talent and exposure to different mediums to her parents, Jan and Iraida, who early on instilled in her love for classical art. Before settling in the United States in 1986, Olga's family lived in many countries where classical art was highly treasured and promoted, including Russia, Poland, and Germany. (click to read more)

Tell us a bit about how you first started painting.

I was born in Soviet Union and grew up in Poland and West Germany, where art education was and still is highly valued. Most of my classes had emphasis on drawing ability and thus my early art specialty leaned towards graphite and colored pencil work.

Original Contemporary Cow
(click to view)

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

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

Yes, from high school through the beginnings of my career, I gave up on art in order to study and grow in the field of engineering. I finished college and relocated to North Carolina when I took a job in telecommunication field. In 2007, after a loss of one of my beloved cats (Mr. Bigglesworth), I took to graphite pencils to create his portrait and my art career got jump start.

What mediums and genres have you experimented with?

I have experimented with pencils, pastels, acrylics and oils and have done everything from realism to abstract work.

Contemporary Owl
(click to view)

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

Even though I still have a soft spot in my heart for graphite pencils, most of my work now is done in oils. I just love the buttery feel of the paint and the way that I can massage the paint on the canvas. Also, the color selection is just amazing.

Which ones are you looking forward to exploring?

Right now, I am happy to stick with oils, but I am always looking to explore new surfaces or texture options.

Handsome Rooster
(click to view)

Who or what inspires you most?

As you can tell from my work, I am inspired by animals. Having volunteered for years in a no-kill cats shelter, I have met so many wonderful cats and kittens with their own stories and all looking for some love in this world.  I am moved by their loving, generous nature and try and reflect those emotions through my paintings.

What does procrastination look like for you?

Sitting down on the couch after coming home from work is a big no-no for me. Once I am down, it is hard for me to get motivated to get into my studio.

Original Contemporary Tabby Cat Kitten
(click to view)

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

I normally have the gessoed boards and/or canvases ready to go on the easel for the next day. In addition to that, I have my palette ready to go with the tubes of paint within easy reach.

How do you generally arrive at ideas for your paintings?

I have a vast collection of animal photos. In addition, I keep up with the photos of adoptable animals that are posted by local shelter. If the eyes talk to me, it is guaranteed that I will paint that animal.

Original Contemporary White Cow
(click to view)

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

I LOVE trying new colors. You never know which color will ultimately end up as part of my favorites. In addition, I love experimenting with different techniques. Anything from textured ground to palette knife work.

What makes you happiest about your art?

I love playing with colors and I love getting messy!  It makes me feel like a kid in a candy store.

Thanks, Olga!

© 2015 Sophie Marine