DPW Spotlight Interview: Judie Mulkey

Each week we will spotlight a different DPW artist who will give away one of their best paintings. To enter to win Judie's painting "Something About You" go to Daily Paintworks and click on the link at the top of the page announcing their interview.

From Judie's DPW Gallery Page:

Welcome to my Daily Paintworks' shop. I have pursued my passion for painting and design my entire life. In the 1980s, I studied interior design at The Atlanta School of Interior Design. I then began painting under the direction of Coe Steinwart, a published and multi-award-winning watercolor artist. I also studied under Christian Bradford, a professional and highly collected artist. Several of my watercolors and oils have received awards as entries in juried shows. My favorite subjects are landscapes, cityscapes and figurative painting. My works are available online at Etsy.com, Fineartamerica.com and local galleries. I am a Georgia native and currently reside in Marietta, GA.

What did you want to be growing up?

I grew up in a wonderful small town outside of Atlanta. I vividly remember my dream was to be a secretary and live in Atlanta with friends.

Something About You
(click to view)

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

When did your artistic journey begin?

As a child in grammar school, I absolutely loved coloring and collage making. I have such fond memories of those simple times... I can still smell the paste and thick crayons in my mind. I was also fascinated with fabrics and design. In the 1980s, I began Interior Design coursework and focused on interior design for many years. My first painting class was a watercolor workshop that I enjoyed with friends. I followed that with oil painting workshops with several different artists. I was fortunate to have several pieces selected for juried shows and received awards for some of my work.

Did you have long periods without creative expression?

No, I am ALWAYS doing something creative. If there is a day I choose not to paint, you will find me reading about art, watching instructional videos and even teaching painting classes out of my home. I also enjoy cooking, gardening and interior design work.

Mid-Century Revisited
(click to view)

What mediums and genre do you gravitate towards?

I enjoy painting with oils, acrylics (liquid acrylics in particular are my favorite), watercolors and collage. I gravitate towards abstract in most of my paintings.

Which ones don’t appeal?

All mediums are appealing to me and I have tried most. However, I have not attempted pastels, but I am sure at some point I will!

French Market Shopping Day
(click to view)

What was the process like of pinpointing your personal style or finding your voice?

My painting process has evolved over time. I am now focused on intuitive painting. When I sit down to begin a painting, I don't typically know what I am going to paint. I start by toning the canvas and mixing some colors. Then, I place some of the colors on the canvas and at that point I decide what to paint.

Name an artist (or artists), well-known or not, who you admire. Why?

I admire many artists both past and present, but the one who stands out for me is Coe Steinwart, an accomplished watercolorist and illustrator of the book, Elf on the Shelf. Coe was my first painting instructor and taught me more than just how to paint. She inspired me and stressed the importance of negative spaces in paintings. One of her most memorable lines was, "Just draw a good shape and paint it!" Simple advice, but so very true.

Tuscan Hillside
(click to view)

If you could offer one piece of advice to your younger, creative self — what would that be?

Just keep at it... don't give up. If you are not in the mood to paint... read, watch, educate yourself!

Do you utilize any habits or tricks for winning the distraction and procrastination battle?

Not really, I just stick with my painting and creating. I am and have always been very creative. If I am not painting, I am meandering around the art supply store, watching a video or trying a new recipe.

Do You Wanna Dance
(click to view)

In moments of self-doubt or adversity, how do you push forward?

I remind myself that this too shall pass. I have always continued to move forward, never giving up.

What are some of your long and short term goals for yourself or your art?

My artistic goals are to continue to paint, to continue to sell my art both locally and online as well as teaching painting in my home.

The French Blue Chest
(click to view)

What does success mean to you personally?

Artistic success for me is summed up this way - I enjoy when someone admires my work enough to purchase it or inquires with me about my art classes.

What is one of your proudest moments in your creative life?

I experience my most proud moments as an artist in front of my canvas. When I can sit down and have the paints flow - as you know, a painting has a mind of its own - and I am able to enjoy that process and create something beautiful. That is complete artistic and creative satisfaction.

Thanks, Judie!

© 2021 Sophie Marine

DPW Spotlight Interview: Vicki Meadows

Each week we will spotlight a different DPW artist who will give away one of their best paintings. To enter to win Vicki's painting "The Lord's Palette" go to Daily Paintworks and click on the link at the top of the page announcing their interview.

From Vicki's DPW Gallery Page:

I am a self taught artist, who is still learning. I have always enjoyed drawing but when my dad gave me an easel and paints for Christmas I started experimenting. I put it aside to raise a family but now have started up again and am wondering why did I stop before. I am intrigued how a canvas, some paints, brushes, and some time can come together to take you to a place you have never been before.

What did you want to be growing up?

I wanted to be an architect. But, when I signed up for the class in high school I was told that the class was for boys and not girls. They suggested I take typing... What? 

When did your artistic journey begin?

I was always drawing as a kid. Never watched TV but sat with my legs under the coffee table for hours and drew anything, my dog, my brother, even the TV set. My dad would take us fishing but I would sit and sketch the stream and the rock and trees. In the third grade my teacher entered a painting I did in the county fair and I took first place. A few years later my dad got me an easel and a box of paints and some board canvases for Christmas. I remember in my first painting my clouds looked like cotton balls. I had a long way to go but I just kept at it. Slowly I learned what worked and what didn't. I learned quickly that you don't paint the tree first and then try and go back and fill in the sky in all the openings of the trees. I am still learning and hope each painting teaches me something.

The Lord's Palette
(click to view)

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

Did you have long periods without creative expression?

Once I got married and had my children I stopped painting. I got busy with life and kids and didn't paint on canvas for forty years. I would paint on my kids' and friends' walls at the time as that was popular then but nothing on canvas. Then a few years ago my mother was sick with Parkinson's/dementia and she had an episode and her Dr. actually came to her house. She commented on the painting over mom's fireplace and my dad told her I was the artist. Her Dr. called me and asked if I would paint a picture for the Michael J. Fox Parkinson's Auction that was coming up in a few months on New Year's Eve. I told her I didn't own any paints or an easel but would think about it.

Well after the holidays, with one week left, I thought about it and with my mom having Parkinson's I realized it was something I needed to do. So I ran to Michaels and picked up a cheap easel and a twenty-four paint starter kit of paints. I went home and spent three days on a painting of the lavender fields in France. My mom's Dr. took it to LA to the auction and it did well for them. Of course I know that at an auction like that items go for more due to the cause but every little bit helps towards a cure.

What mediums and genre do you gravitate towards?

Well my last oil painting was when I was a freshman in college. I was painting before school, cleaned my brushes really quick so I wouldn't be late and placed the rags on the counter in the kitchen. Later that day when I came home and opened the door the house looked hazy inside and smelled smoky. I ran across the street to neighbors and called the fire dept. I went back to the house and went inside and got our two dogs out. By the time the fire dept. arrived the rags had started a fire and had gone up the wall to the curtains around the sink. They told me the rags would have smoldered for a long time but when I opened the door that fed them oxygen and the fire started. That was a quick lesson on simultaneous combustion. I learned to put all rags in a container with a sealed lid. Well, after that I was a little leery about using oils so I started using acrylics that I could clean with soap and water. I have been using them ever since.

What Time Is It?
(click to view)

What was the process like of pinpointing your personal style or finding your voice?

Well, I remember my dad was so proud of my paintings and he took one down to an art gallery to see what they thought about it. The first words the man said was, "She paints like an architect... she painted every brick, every shadow under each brick... you don't do that." I thought that was funny since I wanted to be an architect and was told I couldn't as it was a man's job. I seem to still paint that way... putting in all the detail. I tried to loosen up and when I show it to my husband he always says that doesn't look like your work. I go back and add a little and next thing I know I have put all the detail back in. So for sure I would say I am a Realistic painter. I would love to loosen up but the architect in me still sneaks out.

Name an artist (or artists), well-known or not, who you admire. Why?

I love Monet's artwork, the softness, the colors and the way he uses them. I so wish I could paint like that. How up close it is so loose but stand back and all the details seem to be there. Impressionism.... I love it.

The Arch
(click to view)

If you could offer one piece of advice to your younger, creative self — what would that be?

Don't change how you paint based on what others say. Paint in a way that feels comfortable for you. Don't paint for others but for yourself. You have to be happy with the results and when you are... sign it.

Do you utilize any habits or tricks for winning the distraction and procrastination battle?

When there is a lot going on I can't seem to paint. I have tried to use it as an escape but it doesn't work for me. I can't focus on the art and my mind stresses over other things. When I paint I get so into it that I paint for hours, morning until 10-11pm at night. When my husband says, "What's for dinner?" ...my answer is, "You tell me." I get so engrossed in it that time flies and I love it. But I have to be in the right frame of mind and let things go.

Hinge Door
(click to view)

In moments of self-doubt or adversity, how do you push forward?

I recently took up painting portraits and that has been a struggle but a great learning experience. I painted my grandkids which was so hard since it wasn't just anybody. When you know each freckle and dimple you know when it looks like them or not. I struggled with my grandson's face. Something wasn't right. I kept going over everything and finally took off just a smidgen of his nose and that was it... It was Gavin! Just that little bit made such a difference. I just kept at it until I knew I had it. I guess that is the detail in me that keeps going until I feel it is right.  

What are some of your long and short term goals for yourself or your art?

I would love to paint loosely. I long for the day when I can paint a cow and not put every hair of his head or every blade of grass in the scene. For some reason I have it in my mind if it looks real up close it will look real at a distance. Yet I know that doesn't have to be the case. Definitely LOOSEN UP GIRL.

Crumbs
(click to view)

What does success mean to you personally?

I am not sure if I am there yet... I know I am not. I keep learning and see that I have progressed in my artwork. I am happy with my work but know I can do better. My husband tells me not to change the way I paint but deep inside I want to someday paint like an impressionist. 

What is one of your proudest moments in your creative life?

For sure it would be when I painted a painting for the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's. If the Dr. had not asked me to donate a painting I probably would never have picked up a brush again after forty years. But I felt a need. It was my way of helping my mom. That probably doesn't make sense but when you watch someone with a disease you can feel so helpless. This was my way of feeling like I could do something and contribute, even if it was in a small way.

The Peeking Sun
(click to view)

Thanks, Vicki!

© 2021 Sophie Marine

DPW Spotlight Interview: Kay Smith

Each week we will spotlight a different DPW artist who will give away one of their best paintings. To enter to win Kay's painting "Brusho Bouquet in Jar" go to Daily Paintworks and click on the link at the top of the page announcing their interview.

From Kay's DPW Gallery Page:

Kay's watercolors hang in the Texas State Capitol building in Austin, TX as well as in England, Germany, France, Netherlands, Thailand, and Australia.  She teaches art in her own gallery, Brushworks Studio in Big Spring, TX.  She is one of three artists who founded Caboose Watercolor Society in 1997 locally in Big Spring. Visit her website and blog links below at www.kaysmith.artspan.com and http://kaysmithbrushworks.blogspot.com (click to read more)

What did you want to be growing up?

Growing up I wanted to be a nurse or doctor which I did in 1978.

Brusho Bouquet in Jar
(click to view)

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

When did your artistic journey begin?

My artistic journey began around nine when our parents took us to a larger town for art lessons as no art or music was available in school.

Ball Jar Zinnias
(click to view)

Did you have any long periods without creative expression? How did you "get back on the horse"?

No long periods of art inactivity; was always sketching and drawing.

Roadrunner Profile
(click to view)

What mediums and genres do you gravitate to? Which ones don't appeal?

Oils and pastels were my main mediums until 1993 when I took my first watercolor workshop. Watercolor is my chosen medium and florals and animals are favorite genres.

Portraits do not appeal to me much but I continue to study the human face and figure.

Purple Prickly Pear Cactus

(click to view)

Name an artist, well-known or not, who you admire. Why?

I admire Ken Hosmer, my first watercolor instructor, as he continues to teach those who yearn to bring their creativity up a notch.

Fortune Teller
(click to view)

If you could offer one piece of advice to your younger, creative self — what would that be?

Advice for my younger self would be to start watercolor earlier in life and advice to others is to do art now, do not wait until you retire.

Fat Tody Bird
(click to view)

Do you utilize any habits or tricks for winning the distraction and procrastination battle?

As a daily painter I do not have procrastination or artist blocks.

Floyd's Cats
(click to view)

What are some of your long and short term goals for yourself or your art?

Long term goal is to obtain signature status with American Watercolor Society or the National Watercolor Society to go with the various state societies' signatures already attained.

Trumpet Man
(click to view)

What is one of your proudest moments in your creative life?

One of my proudest moments was to earn the SWS (Southwestern Watercolor Society) signature, my first one.

Thanks, Kay!

© 2021 Sophie Marine

DPW Spotlight Interview: Marian Stamos

Each week we will spotlight a different DPW artist who will give away one of their best paintings. To enter to win Marian's painting "Wee Bouquet" go to Daily Paintworks and click on the link at the top of the page announcing their interview.

From Marian's DPW Gallery Page:

I've been creating art for nearly twenty years. I paint because I must. I choose to paint quiet peace and beauty in praise of an awesome God. My painting subjects are widely varied. I see beauty everywhere. My work includes still life, landscapes, figurative, and portraits of people and pets.

I am often drawn to quiet and simple life themes of my youth growing up in rural West Central Illinois... and yet equally energized by the colorful excitement of the city.

While my painting style can best be described as painterly realism, I enjoy learning other approaches.  Oils are my chosen medium due to their flexibility, rich color and buttery texture and ability to magically convey depth and distance on the flat canvas surface.

"The aim of every artist is to arrest motion, which is life, by artificial means and hold it fixed so that a hundred years later, when a stranger looks at it, it moves again since it is life." -- William Faulkner

I am a member of the Oil Painters of America and the Barrington Arts Cultural Center and regularly exhibit at BCAC galleries in Barrington IL.

What did you want to be growing up?

A school teacher mostly. I often “played teacher” when a child. I did teach English (language arts) for six years immediately after college. Then went on to the corporate world for a twenty-eight-plus year career.

When did your artistic journey begin?

Art was my favorite subject in elementary school and I would draw with crayons and chalk at home. I recall copying a picture of Mary and Joseph with the Christ Child fleeing Bethlehem. It was from a Christmas Ideals magazine. Unknown to me, my mother saved the drawing and many years later at Christmas presented it to me framed with my age, etc. noted on the back in her handwriting. I still have it.

Wee Bouquet
(click to view)

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

Did you have long periods without creative expression? How did you get back on the horse?

Oh yes… most of my adulthood was spent without creating art. Life happens. My career was demanding in every way. About twenty years ago the Chicago office where I worked closed and moved to DC. I did not want to move so I found myself looking for a job in my mid-fifties… not easy. We were given career counseling as part of our severance package which included testing to determine one’s optimal career choices. I scored high in the creative end so my counselor suggested I go to her sister’s art school. I started taking classes… was immediately hooked… and I have been painting off and on ever since.

What mediums and genre do you gravitate towards? Which ones don’t appeal?

I began with oils and have stayed since… cannot imagine painting with anything else. I love all subjects – I started with still life but now also create landscapes, figurative work and a few portraits. I become bored if I stay too long in one area. I lean toward realism with an impressionist approach. Paintings that convey pain, weirdness, evil etc. don’t appeal to me. Life is enough of a challenge. God gives us a beautiful planet full of breathtaking surprises as well as special moments with other human beings. I want to focus on those. I want my work to bring joy, hope, excitement to the viewer.

Hot Stuff!
(click to view)

What was the process like of pinpointing your personal style or finding your voice?

I guess it just happened naturally. However, I am still feeling my way. I am drawn to art where I can recognize the subject and relate to it in some way. That would include some abstract work. 

Name an artist (or artists), well-known or not, who you admire. Why?

Whew! There are so many out there today… unbelievable talent. We are blessed to have them all and their diverse styles. I like Christine Lafuente and her abstract approach but I also like Kathy Anderson’s flowers, Kim English’s figurative work. Carol Marine's clever simplification… and I could go on and on.

Simon
(click to view)

If you could offer one piece of advice to your younger, creative self — what would that be?

Spend more time drawing and looking more deeply at the world around you. I have learned that painting opens one’s eyes, mind and heart to what is around you daily… tremendous beauty all the time.

Do you utilize any habits or tricks for winning the distraction and procrastination battle?

Not really… I am still battling that. It does not help to also have serious interests in interior decorating and design and gardening. I am retired but much of my distraction is from these areas – also creative.

Cuties
 (click to view)

In moments of self-doubt or adversity, how do you push forward?

I am a Christian. Christians approach life in this world as only temporary and strive on to the eternal kingdom. All here in the present is temporary. So when I am feeling inadequate as an artist or that I have failed in some way, I just accept it and recognize it… try to figure out a way to improve… and then put it all in perspective. And move on.

What are some of your long and short term goals for yourself or your art?

I am 78 years old… not too sure about those long-term goals. Short term, I want to learn how to paint more loosely, be braver about those color choices and work more on those values. I would love just once to win some award. That would be nice for sure.

Happiness Times Three
(click to view)

What does success mean to you personally?

To create the best art that I can -- art that catches the viewer’s eye and makes the heart beat just a bit faster.

What is one of the proudest moments in your creative life?

Anytime someone buys my art… that’s really something! I do recall one moment -- my first time painting in a plein air event and a couple bought my painting. I could not believe it. I  still remember the painting and their faces and excitement.

Thanks, Marian!

© 2021 Sophie Marine

DPW Spotlight Interview: Tracy Hurley

Each week we will spotlight a different DPW artist who will give away one of their best paintings. To enter to win Tracy's painting "A Jewel of Nature" go to Daily Paintworks and click on the link at the top of the page announcing their interview.

From Tracy's DPW Gallery Page:

I am a daily painter with a habit of painting in the morning, before I do anything else. By the end of my morning session, I know I have been creative for the day, which is a little gift to myself. This habit contributes to my happiness, and I recommend it to anyone.

I have always loved art. I am drawn to looking at the natural world to see if a portion can be framed into a compelling composition. On walks in nature, I take my camera in the hope of finding birds. It feels like a treasure hunt. I try to get close-ups where I can see feather structure, subtle colors, and the flash of light in their eyes. I use many of these as reference photos for paintings. Birds were among the first subjects I wanted to paint.

I live in Southern California, having grown up in Indiana, where my parents and siblings still live. I met my husband here, and we started our family, which now includes 2 kids and a few cats. My cats are the most willing of models, so in addition to birds you may also see them, with a few other subjects along the way.

For more of my art, please see my Instagram page at @tmwhurley.

Thank you for visiting!

What did you want to be growing up?

I wish I knew! I was a late bloomer in figuring out what I want to be, and I’m not sure that I’ve figured it out yet, even at the tender age of fifty-six.

If I were to live my youth over, I would focus more on creating art, and I say that because I’m enjoying art so much now. Instead, I took a science path: I studied biology, got a PhD, and worked in research labs. Some people (other than me) are suited to this work, and I met many brilliant, creative, inquisitive scientists doing clever experiments. My own career satisfaction required a fork in the road. I enrolled in a science communication course, which pointed me along my current path. In my day-job (of twenty years!) we create animations about science. I write/draw storyboards, record voice-over, and do some animation work. It’s a lot of good variety, and I feel happy to have a product at the end of the day. Ever since I had kids, I have worked part time at this job, which also makes it easier to include art into my mornings.

When did your artistic journey begin?

I remember drawing as a child, but I wasn’t diligent or a constant doodler with pencil in hand. I took a few art classes in high school, college, and later in continuing ed classes. I loved looking at art and I had the idea that the artists that I admired simply had a huge amount of innate talent (and they probably did, in part), and so I felt discouraged that my own efforts were not impressive. I only recently cottoned on to the idea that practice makes perfect (who knew?), or at least makes a little better. I wish this lesson had sunk in earlier in my life, because I would have been much more systematic in my hobbies, not getting discouraged by a bad performance or drawing, just trying again and again if I knew there was a nugget of pleasure in there somewhere.

A Jewel of Nature
(click to view)

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

Did you have any long periods without creative expression? How did you "get back on the horse"?

I made very little art while I was studying biology and working in research labs. My personal art-making was re-ignited several years ago, inspired in part by Carol Marine’s book on daily painting, as well as by looking at art, birds, and other beauty in the natural world. Also helpful is that I have a friend who acts as my art-accountability partner. We send texts to each other most days, showing our creative efforts, offering suggestions or a thumbs-up (or a ha ha). In this way, my art is not just for myself, but my friend sees it, too, and that helps.

What mediums and genres do you gravitate to?

I am currently painting with acrylics. I have tried and liked oils in the past but worry about ventilation and toxicity issues. So acrylics it is! Before painting with acrylics, I was making bird drawings using colored pencils, and then I discovered the Procreate app to make digital paintings on my iPad, from the comfort of my lounge chair. I have spent a lot of time with Procreate. I love to look at representational art, and this is what I paint as well.

Do I Have Your Attention?
(click to view)

Which ones don't appeal?

Although I admire watercolor paintings, I believe that watercolor artists require a more devil-may-care attitude (or the opposite of that in the form of meticulous pre-planning), because there are stricter limitations on correcting mistakes and no delete button. I have yet to find that attitude in myself, but never say never!

What was the process like of pinpointing your personal style or finding your voice?

I don’t know that I’ve pinpointed it yet. I would like to paint more expressively, but that style may not be in me. I look at my gallery of art and think that they all look like they were painted by the same person, so perhaps I have landed on a style, in spite of myself.

Sycamore with Black Phoebe
(click to view)

Name an artist, well-known or not, who you admire. Why?

I follow a lot of amazing artists, going down rabbit holes to see as much of their work as is available online. This week’s rabbit hole is wallpapered with the paintings of Jennifer Anderson, a contemporary artist in the UK. Oh those luminous faces! I love her work.

If you could offer one piece of advice to your younger, creative self — what would that be?

Keep up a daily habit of art, and consider the habit itself to be your goal.

Just Resting My Eyes!
(click to view)

Do you utilize any habits or tricks for winning the distraction and procrastination battle?

My daily habit is to go to my art space every day after I wake up. I’m the early riser of the family, so I have a small window of uninterrupted time. I was inspired to do this from hearing other artists describe their process. I don’t require myself to do much, which eliminates a feeling of burden. Usually I work for an hour, but sometimes just five minutes.

In moments of self-doubt or adversity, how do you push forward?

I try to frame the “failures” as part of the learning process. I’m also convinced that a steady, regular effort will bring me over most hurdles. Then, if nothing seems to be working regarding a painting, I see no problem with quitting it and starting a new one. I can't forget to mention here that my family is full of sweeties who encourage and promote me, and that helps keep me positive.

Scrub Jay in the Garden
(click to view)

What are some of your long and short term goals for yourself or your art? What does success mean to you personally?

These are hard questions to answer after saying that my goal is the habit itself. I would like to sell my paintings, for sure, but my main goal is to do the painting every day. If I can do that, I have won (that is what I tell myself!)

What is one of your proudest moments in your creative life?

Can I count that DPW asked to spotlight my art?

Dobie Love
(click to view)

Thanks, Tracy!

© 2021 Sophie Marine

DPW Spotlight Artist: Sheila Longerbeam

Each week we will spotlight a different DPW artist who will give away one of their best paintings. To enter to win Sheila's painting "Fresh Melon" go to Daily Paintworks and click on the link at the top of the page announcing their interview.

From Sheila's DPW Gallery Page:

Hi! I’m Sheila and I live in Northern CA, near San Francisco. I am sixty-three,  married with two grown children. I work full time as a psychotherapist, so painting is what I do most of the rest of the time! I usually paint four to five times a week and post my work to Instagram. I started painting seriously about six years ago. I began by attending a pastel workshop at Pt Reyes National Seashore--- a glorious spot on the northern CA coast! The work of the others, and the natural beauty reminded me of what I had always loved about art. I was inspired! 

Reading Carol Marine's book, Daily Painting, helped me to see how I could break down the art process into bite-sized pieces allowing me to gradually grow as an artist. At this point, I am focusing on strengthening my representational skills: drawing, value, composition, and color harmony. I also love it when those skills lead to a piece that is geometric and abstract-ish. I strive to create paintings with bold and inspiring colors. I realize that the spontaneity and freedom and delight I see in the paintings I love requires discipline and trust. Slowing down, deepening, trying again and again to catch the right color that makes a painting sing. As you look at my work, I hope that you see something that delights you.

What did you want to be growing up?

I didn’t know! It took me until about the age of twenty-six to know what I wanted to be when I grew up! At that point, I began training to be a psychotherapist, and have practiced in this field for thirty years, specializing in working with couples.

As I was sorting out what to do with my life, I often vacillated back and forth between something more socially impactful, such as therapy and something more spiritually growthful such as art and meditation. In the end, I thought my natural abilities and ambitions would be best fulfilled as a therapist. Also, I certainly didn't think I had much native talent for artwork and self-criticism made it more of a struggle.

When did your artistic journey begin?

From a young age, I have been very moved by paintings. I liked representational art as well as abstract art. I found favorite paintings in art museums and would return to visit the paintings that spoke to me. I felt that real art, as opposed to reproductions of art, had an energy from the artist that I was able to feel. 

My earliest art memories are of taking the bus on Saturday mornings to Rhode Island School of Design in Providence, RI to attend figure drawing classes, as a middle schooler. I felt nervous approaching the easel and drawing, so it was exciting and terrifying all at once.

I studied art as a second major in college and sporadically painted in my twenties.

Fresh Melon
(click to view)

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

Did you have any long periods without creative expression?

Yes. After college, I focused on finding and building my psychology career. I pursued psychological/spiritual growth, married and raised two kids. At about fifty-five years old I began to do art again more seriously.

How did you "get back on the horse?"

I attended a weekend pastel workshop with Bill Cone at Pt. Reyes National Seashore in Northern CA, in the US, one of my favorite places on earth. It opened something up in me and I gradually began to paint more and more, mostly focusing on plein air and landscapes.

In this time period, I noticed something else quite remarkable: I was painting without self-criticism. This was huge! I was able to enjoy my effort and my process. Without the hindrance of self-criticism, I was able to improve more rapidly.

When COVID hit, I started to think about death, and realized that I wanted to complete a body of work before I died. So I have particularly focused this year on painting very consistently— about 4-5 times per week. I have read books, watched YouTube, attended classes and been inspired by Instagram. This also coincides with my children entering adulthood and me thinking about "the rest of my life."

Round the Bend
(click to view)

What mediums and genres do you gravitate to?

I love oils and pastels. I am interested now in developing my representational skills. I want to be able to delight others with color and light. I can imagine in the future that I might want to do some abstract work, but for now, I am working on the basics.

Which ones don't appeal?

I am not particularly interested in acrylics or watercolors. I also want my paintings to be loose and expressive as opposed to tightly realistic.

Geometric Colors
(click to view)

What was the process like of pinpointing your personal style or finding your voice?

I am continuously finding my artistic voice. I am following my internal instincts and noticing what is revealed on the canvas. I collect paintings that inspire me and try to pinpoint what it is I love about them. I think this reveals something about me. At this point, my skill lags behind my vision.

I also continue to inquire, "why do I paint?" I think it is because I want to create visual moments that might stop someone in their tracks and cause them to look a bit more deeply at something they find beautiful or intriguing.

Name an artist, well-known or not, who you admire. Why?

I feel so much admiration for the everyday artists who continue to paint despite other significant obligations. I also feel admiration for the artists who have started painting later in life and paint with conviction.

White Vessels
(click to view)

If you could offer one piece of advice to your younger, creative self — what would that be?

I feel good about how my creative self has developed in my life, so I don’t know that I have any particular advice.

Do you utilize any habits or tricks for winning the distraction and procrastination battle?

The best way for me to continue being productive is to set goals for myself. I have weekly and yearly goals. Since I continue to work as a therapist, the time I have off is precious to me, so I remind myself of that and make the most of it.

Lemons and Pink
(click to view)

In moments of self-doubt or adversity, how do you push forward?

When I feel self-doubt, it often helps to go for a walk, look at art that inspires me, set a small goal for myself and start painting. It is especially helpful not to compare myself to others.

What are some of your long and short term goals for yourself or your art?

I want to continue to become more skilled as an artist. In the short term, I want to paint small to develop my skills. Soon, I would also like to return to painting larger pieces. I would like to exhibit my art locally and to connect with other artists for plein air outings.

Lilies and Cake
(click to view)

What does success mean to you personally?

Success means completing a body of work I feel proud of. I feel proud of my work if I see it improving and changing over time. Success also means being in community with other artists.

What is one of your proudest moments in your creative life?

The proudest moments for me at this point are when I create paintings where the visual language catches up with what I want to say. I feel these paintings are an expression of an essential part of me. It is hard to define, but a thrilling moment that many painters would recognize.

Thanks, Sheila!

© 2021 Sophie Marine

DPW Spotlight Interview: Anna Shikany

Each week we will spotlight a different DPW artist who will give away one of their best paintings. To enter to win Anna's painting "Pink Flower" go to Daily Paintworks and click on the link at the top of the page announcing their interview.

From Anna's DPW Gallery Page:

Hello. I'm Anna. I live in Minnesota with my husband and two kids (and soon a chameleon I plan on naming Georgie). If it weren't for my kids, I'm not sure I would be a painter. One day I bought my daughter a set of watercolors and it was love at first brush stroke. In 2019 I started taking my learning seriously. I told myself I wouldn't pick up a paint brush again until I taught myself to draw. So for one year, all I did was draw. I also put myself through a DIY art school. I studied the greats, went to museums, and I even wrote my own art history reports. Lots of plagiarism but who cares when I'm the only one reading them. :) I opened my first set of oil paints in January 2020 and the rest is history.

What did you want to be growing up?

This is a tough one because I honesty can’t remember. I was so behind in grade school that I spent all my time trying to catch up let alone grow up. I do know that I deeply wanted to be the Olsen twins' long lost triplet, but that didn’t pan out. I also wanted to be a Spice Girl. If only there was an Arty Spice to look up to, maybe I would have found my artistic path sooner.

When did your artistic journey begin?

I believe that everyone is on an artistic journey. The real question is ‘when do we realize that we’re on an artistic journey?’ When do we find that special something that makes us feel a little more alive and life is a little more clear? That awareness came to me when I applied to Perpich Center for Arts Education. It’s an arts high school in Golden Valley, Minnesota for Juniors and Seniors. Basically Hogwarts, but for artists. We lived and breathed art. Every single teacher was an artistic mentor. It was an incredible experience and it taught me that art is in everything, even math.

Pink Flower
(click to view)

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

Did you have any long periods without creative expression? How did you "get back on the horse"?

Sometimes fear can prevent us from starting something new or picking up where we left off. One trick I have for conquering that fear is creating something abstract. Paint for the sake of mixing colors and making brush strokes. Tell yourself that this isn’t for anyone else but you. Don’t post it, don’t sell it. Use it to break the fear and get back on that horse.

What mediums and genres do you gravitate to? Which ones don't appeal?

Oils have my heart. The texture, the vibrant color, the smell. When I first started painting four years ago, it was with a cheap watercolor set I bought for my four year-old-daughter. It was crappy paint, but it was love at first brush stroke. Eventually I ventured into acrylic territory and I fell deeper in love. Oils were next on my radar, but I was afraid of the toxic fumes and smells (chronic migraine sufferer here). I gave water-soluble oils a chance, but they didn’t feel right. I wanted the real thing. So, I did some research and found non-toxic alternatives for oil painting. By Christmas 2019 I had my first set of oils and the rest is history.

As far as genres go, they say artists often admire the opposite style of art that they create, and that’s true for me. When I’m at art museums, you’ll find me in the Expressionists section. When I’m at my easel, you’ll find me painting realism.

Paper Bag No. 6
(click to view)

What was the process like of pinpointing your personal style or finding your voice?

Up until recently, I was so jealous of artists that had perfected their personal style. That beautiful relationship they built with their art that allows people to recognize their works just by looking at it. Personal style isn’t something you can force out of yourself. There isn’t a book that you can buy that will teach you your personal style. I can remember feeling frustrated, like my artistic goals were out of my control. I knew I had it in me, but I didn’t know where to look. 

I believe that we all have a built-in unique artistic style that just needs to be nurtured. It takes a desire to unleash it and patience to build it. Like any relationship, it’s important not to rush it, to give your bad work a lot of slack and most importantly, paint true to yourself.  

 

One thing I did to help build my relationship with art was to create my own DIY art school. A little over a year ago I decided to start from scratch. I dedicated eight months to strictly drawing. I didn’t touch a paint brush until I could sketch a decent picture. I studied art history, wrote my own research papers and visited the art museum whenever I could. Not to brag, but I was a straight A student. :)

Name an artist, well-known or not, who you admire. Why?

My great grandmother, Mary James Stark. She was an amazing oil painter. I never got to meet her but she left behind a plethora of her paintings that hang in my home.

I love her work the same way I love Van Gogh and Cezanne. I wish there were history books written about her to study. I wish her inspirational quotes were written down. To me, she’s the most famous artist in my life. As a kid I would spend hours starring at her paintings. I would tell my friends that if they stand close it just looks like a blur, but if they take a few steps back it looks like a landscape. Little did I know, I was discovering impressionism.

Artichoke
(click to view)

If you could offer one piece of advice to your younger, creative self — what would that be?

I wouldn’t! I wouldn’t tell tiny Anna anything. We’ve all seen what happens in Back to the Future. Stay away from the past and instead share that advice with your current self. So, what would I tell my current self? Just keep painting. Just keep painting.

Do you utilize any habits or tricks for winning the distraction and procrastination battle? 

My painting practice is quite simple. I paint when I want to and I take breaks when I’m burnt out. Distraction and procrastination luckily haven’t found their way into my practice. However, I’m terrified that a day will come when I wake up and have no more interest in painting. What if I never want to paint again? Just the thought makes me anxious. I have to remind myself that that fear is coming from a place of love. So, I refocus my thoughts on my love for painting instead of my fear of losing it.

Five Paint Brushes
(click to view)

In moments of self-doubt or adversity, how do you push forward?

My self-doubt shows itself when I have low energy. It took me a while to realize this correlation, but if I physically don’t feel like doing something, I tell myself I can’t do it. The truth is that I can do it, just not right now. Timing is everything. I don’t force myself to push forward, I allow myself the time I need to build up energy and eventually the motivation always comes back. 

What are some of your long and short term goals for yourself or your art?

1. Get into the Minnesota Uptown Art Fair

2. Get into the Minnesota State Fair Fine Arts Exhibit

3. Learn how to paint en plein air and paint in every Minnesota State Park

4. Come up with an amazing inspirational quote that everyone knows

Pink Passion Bouquet in a Ball Jar
(click to view)

What does success mean to you personally?

Let’s be real. That quick fix successful feeling you get when a painting sells is an amazing high. Sales and money equals happiness and happiness equals success right? But you can be an award-winning, wealthy, famous artist and still be very unhappy right? The key is finding and nurturing our inner peace.  If I can remain grounded when bad things happen and setbacks occur, then I feel victory is made.

What is one of your proudest moments in your creative life?

I used to look at paintings and say, “I wish I could do that.” Somehow, I had it in my head that if you weren’t born with talent, you were just out of luck. But the more I continued to learn, the more I practiced, the better I got. It’s always nice to be called talented, but the truth is that for so many of us, it’s not natural talent. It’s desire + dedication + determination. I’ve never been prouder of myself for making my own talent. Now I look at my own paintings and I say, “I did that!”

Thanks, Anna!

© 2021 Sophie Marine

DPW Spotlight Interview: Iryna Khort

Each week we will spotlight a different DPW artist who will give away one of their best paintings. To enter to win Iryna's painting "Amazing Colors of Nature" go to Daily Paintworks and click on the link at the top of the page announcing their interview.

From Iryna's DPW Gallery Page:

I have been painting for more than four years. I discovered a craving for art accidentally and I am happy herewith. Now I develop my art business and paint bright oil and acrylic paintings.

I find inspiration in birds, nature in general, and people. The bird is a symbol of the flow of thought and freedom. Freedom to think and move around - this idea is the heart of the desire itself and at the same time is an implementation of reality.

My goal is to give joy to my clients and friends through my art, to share impressions and inspire.

What did you want to be growing up?

In primary school, my teacher asked my classmates and me who we want to be when growing up. That was funny because most of the class replied that they wanted to be a teacher and I did too. Every next year my desires change, and I never thought that I would be an artist.

When did your artistic journey begin?

Several years ago, I accidentally got into the studio of an artist. In those days I earned a living in a completely different field, not related to art, and honestly, I didn't like my job. The studio was placed in the basement, however, there was a lot of space and light. Beautiful women looked at me from large paintings; stretchers, frames, canvases were everywhere, all had turned into a sense of discovery: bright images, color, and depth, the smell of paints. I had felt right at home. Since then, I have had a desire to paint.

Amazing Colors of Nature
(click to view)

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

Did you have any long periods without creative expression? How did you "get back on the horse"?

There are definitely times when I don't want to paint at all. At this time, I feel an emptiness inside. In this case, I let it go and just try to relax and do something else. And then the desire to paint comes again.

What mediums and genres do you gravitate to? Which ones don't appeal?

I like to paint birds, animals, seascapes, and the sky. I love soft mediums: oil, acrylic, charcoal. I'm not comfortable with solid materials which need focusing and tension as well as all the genre with straight lines and control, e.g. cityscapes, architecture, or transportation.

Duckling
(click to view)

What was the process like of pinpointing your personal style or finding your voice?

I'm not sure that I've already got my personal style. I think I will be on this lifelong way to search for myself and try to understand who I am. The process of the searching itself is the goal.

Name an artist, well-known or not, who you admire. Why?

Admiration for someone is not my cup of tea. Art is so subjective. There are amazing artworks that I like, and some I can't enjoy. But I love any manifestation of creativity, whether it be cave drawings of ancient people or a make-up of a teenager going to a party. I am open to the world.

Gentle Wind
(click to view)

If you could offer one piece of advice to your younger, creative self — what would that be?

I would advise myself to ponder less and paint more and never give up.

Do you utilize any habits or tricks for winning the distraction and procrastination battle?

I start with the little things. I have my own ritual. I turn off the Internet on my cellphone, put the canvas panel on the easel, squeeze the paints out of the tubes onto the palette and turn on pleasant music. All these little things bring me into working condition.

Tiny Friend
(click to view)

In moments of self-doubt or adversity, how do you push forward?

I try to keep myself busy. Most often, I do only what brings me joy. Thereby I try to avoid plunging into the uncertainty, which only takes away the strength.

What are some of your long and short term goals for yourself or your art?

I am going to develop my small art business, my skills, not only in painting but in taking a photo, video, keeping social media, etc. In the long term I want to have a bigger studio or own an art gallery where I would be able to paint, teach, have different exhibitions or other art projects.

Colorful Toucan
(click to view)

What does success mean to you personally?

Success is being yourself, doing what you love, whatever it is.

What is one of your proudest moments in your creative life?

It is the moment when I overcame my fears and started just painting.

Thanks, Iryna!

© 2021 Sophie Marine