Each week we will spotlight a different DPW artist who will give away one of their best paintings. To enter to win Kim's painting "Salsa" go to Daily Paintworks and click on the link at the top of the page announcing their interview.
Painting is my life! I favor figures/portraits as subjects. I have found rich and endlessly interesting ways to express myself. I continue to paint and learn everyday. The fast-pace and ever-changing commercial landscape of e-commerce opened an unexpected source of revenue for me.
Through my page at Dailypaintworks, I have garnered thousands of collectors from many corners of the world. My work is very affordable and can be easily collected through eBay. I continue to hone my craft on a daily basis and you can visit my art on kimsartblog./blogspot.com.
Salsa (click to view) Enter to win by clicking on the link at the top of the DPW home page announcing interview |
What did you want to be growing up?
At 72 now I still don’t want to grow up! What does this really mean? Get a job, go to work, get a paycheck… start over again tomorrow. Nope that’s not for me. I’m still a kid!
When did your artistic journey begin?
I didn’t think of becoming an artist until I turned 50. A dear friend lost her battle with cancer, and we were the same age. This affected me in a profound way. I re-examined my life and decided the dead-end job had to go and I found solace in visiting museums, art galleries and street exhibits. I got to know a few artists and decided that I wanted to paint. I didn’t really know if I could live just being an artist, but it was better than what I was doing. Tired of the cold New England weather I moved to Texas where it was warm, and the living was easier. Eventually, I joined a few local art organizations and found my way into this creative world, once again a child. I got to play with all kinds of mediums and discovered different genres of work.
Out Of The Blue (click to view) |
Did you have any long periods without creative expression? How did you get back on the horse?
Not for a long time. I was on fire being a Daily Painters. I put out a large body of work…one to three paintings a day for a decade. When Daily Painters began to lose momentum, I thought I was burned out and even talked of retirement. I just couldn’t do it. I kept my hand in painting and just slowed down a bit. It's easy to get back in the saddle if you never get out!
Which mediums and genres do you gravitate towards? Which ones don’t appeal?
I love all mediums (remember, still a kid). Oil is my most common go-to because other mediums require a different mind-set, so… it depends on the wishes of the kid. I gravitate towards impressionism but also enjoy portrait, still life and landscape. Not a fan of photo realism.
On The Wild Side (click to view) |
What was the process like of pinpointing your personal style or finding your voice?
I’m still listening for my voice. I really enjoy the process of self-discovery. Trying new things, new ideas, new mediums, new styles… It's all part of the process of becoming a painter. Changing this up keeps the kid from getting bored.
Name an artist(s), well known or not, who you admire. Why?
This is the type of question that begs for a long answer. I have been painting for 22 years and many artists have influenced me along the way at one time or another. I still discover and follow new artists today. Sherrie McGraw and David Laffel for the chiaroscuro present in their work. I was fortunate to work with them in their garden for seven years and I learned how great Modern Masters work (picked up a few things in the process). I love Steve Huston’s brushwork and use of color harmony. There’s a real beauty and strength in Steve’s work. I will be forever influenced by Milt Kobayashi. It is so playful with juicy brushwork and luscious colors. Finally, Kim English for his use of back light in his watercolors. Oops, I must include Stephen Scott Young! Oh, and Dean Mitchell! And then there is Sally Strand for pastel. Last, but not least, Carol Marine (a little brown-nosing here). Carol’s artwork is like candy to me and I really find her work charming. Do I sound like an actor accepting an award here! I warned you it would be long.
Bella
(click to view)
If you could offer one piece of advice to your younger, creative self – what would that be?
Who says I’m old! I’m still a kid here! Well, I guess it would be to study hard and be patient. There is no magic trick! Learn the principal elements of design; apply them well and be playful. Learn to let go!
Do you utilize any habits or tricks for winning the distraction and procrastination battle?
The battle is still raging! Daily Painters trained me to work hard every day… small pieces… time to play! You got to let the kid out.
Dream
(click to view)
In moments of self-doubt or adversity, how do you push forward?
I keep trying. Life is full of hardships, and you need to just keep putting one foot forward.
What are some of your long- and short-term goals for yourself or your art?
My short- and long-term goals are the same…getting up every day and painting! Bob (my husband) will take care of the rest!
Onion and Garlic
(click to view)
What does success mean to you personally?
To live to paint another day.
What is one of your proudest moments in your creative life?
I don’t know if there are any that stand out. I was very proud when I received the Jack Richardson award in pastel. Or, when I was accepted into the Oil Painters of America. Every time I complete a painting, I’m proud indeed.
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