"The position of the artist is humble. He is essentially a channel."
Joan Miro
August 31, 2010
I am an Artist: Christy
Nobody is perfect. Lisa and I get a tremendous amount of email each day and sometimes one slips between the cracks. Christy of Oklahoma was an innocent bystander and had to wait until now for her interview to be posted. Apologies Christy! We hope you understand.
1. Why are you an artist?
Art is all I know. Ever since I was old enough to use crayons, I was constantly drawing. I have always wanted to be an artist. I have never really been able to relate to people, so I express myself through art. If anyone that can understand it or at least get their own ideas from it, then I can probably relate to them more than most people.
2. Is there a concept behind your work? If so, please tell us about it
It really depends on what I am doing. I can do realistic sketches and painting, which I find boring and unfulfilling. I use realistic pieces are practice between my art pieces. The surreal or abstract pieces are everything that is in my head. Every stroke, line, color, or shape is how I perceive the things around me.
3. Why do you use the medium that you use?
I mostly use acrylic paint because it dries quicker and goes farther. It is easier for me to get out any frustrations without the wait. I have more control with pencil, but it is more time consuming.
4. What is your favorite color and why?
I would have to say my favorite color is green. It can be calming and energetic. Surrounding myself with green can usually cheer me up when I am feeling blue. Pun intended.
5. What is the role of the narrative in your work?
No matter how crazy or intense thoughts can get, I would use art to make them more real so others can see what I see. When you see something that is like nothing you have seen before, it is nearly impossible to describe it to someone else. If you create an image for them, they are able to understand more. So for those that cannot create these images, my art is there to confirm that there are so many things that are possible.
6. What is the role of the artist in our society? And in Oklahoma?
I think artist exist to help people to understand what they cannot explain themselves. If someone cannot draw, paint, or write about how they are feeling, they may be able to find comfort in some art form that helps them realize they are not alone. That is the role I play, anyway.
7. Is there a comment that someone said about your art that has stuck with you? If so, what is it?
When in high school, my art teacher said, “If you can’t see it, you can’t draw it.” This really upset me because we were being forced to stay within this box and color inside the lines. I hate to have people tell me or anyone else that their art is not art just because it is not their style.
8. Have you ever encountered someone/something that is anti-art (believes that art is not of high value)? How did you react to that?
Just about everything or everyone that I have known has been anti-art in some way. There have been maybe a handful of people in my life that have been pro-art. Most of my family tries to stomp out anything artistic because they considered it embarrassing and childish. Since I never really cared if anyone approved of my art, I just ignored it. If anything was said that did upset me, I would just draw or paint it out.
9. As an artist how do you deal with rejection?
As an artist, you cannot take rejection personally. You just find a different crowd. I see it as a way to find people that understand you and allow you to be true to yourself. However, I would take any criticism and try to use it to improve.
10. What does art mean to you?
Art is what keeps me going. It is life. It is one of the few things that hold meaning to me anymore and it keeps me going. When people or anything else lets me down, I have art to help me keep my chin up.
See more of Christy's work at: http://iwantyerbum.deviantart.com/
1. Why are you an artist?
Art is all I know. Ever since I was old enough to use crayons, I was constantly drawing. I have always wanted to be an artist. I have never really been able to relate to people, so I express myself through art. If anyone that can understand it or at least get their own ideas from it, then I can probably relate to them more than most people.
2. Is there a concept behind your work? If so, please tell us about it
It really depends on what I am doing. I can do realistic sketches and painting, which I find boring and unfulfilling. I use realistic pieces are practice between my art pieces. The surreal or abstract pieces are everything that is in my head. Every stroke, line, color, or shape is how I perceive the things around me.
3. Why do you use the medium that you use?
I mostly use acrylic paint because it dries quicker and goes farther. It is easier for me to get out any frustrations without the wait. I have more control with pencil, but it is more time consuming.
4. What is your favorite color and why?
I would have to say my favorite color is green. It can be calming and energetic. Surrounding myself with green can usually cheer me up when I am feeling blue. Pun intended.
5. What is the role of the narrative in your work?
No matter how crazy or intense thoughts can get, I would use art to make them more real so others can see what I see. When you see something that is like nothing you have seen before, it is nearly impossible to describe it to someone else. If you create an image for them, they are able to understand more. So for those that cannot create these images, my art is there to confirm that there are so many things that are possible.
6. What is the role of the artist in our society? And in Oklahoma?
I think artist exist to help people to understand what they cannot explain themselves. If someone cannot draw, paint, or write about how they are feeling, they may be able to find comfort in some art form that helps them realize they are not alone. That is the role I play, anyway.
7. Is there a comment that someone said about your art that has stuck with you? If so, what is it?
When in high school, my art teacher said, “If you can’t see it, you can’t draw it.” This really upset me because we were being forced to stay within this box and color inside the lines. I hate to have people tell me or anyone else that their art is not art just because it is not their style.
8. Have you ever encountered someone/something that is anti-art (believes that art is not of high value)? How did you react to that?
Just about everything or everyone that I have known has been anti-art in some way. There have been maybe a handful of people in my life that have been pro-art. Most of my family tries to stomp out anything artistic because they considered it embarrassing and childish. Since I never really cared if anyone approved of my art, I just ignored it. If anything was said that did upset me, I would just draw or paint it out.
9. As an artist how do you deal with rejection?
As an artist, you cannot take rejection personally. You just find a different crowd. I see it as a way to find people that understand you and allow you to be true to yourself. However, I would take any criticism and try to use it to improve.
10. What does art mean to you?
Art is what keeps me going. It is life. It is one of the few things that hold meaning to me anymore and it keeps me going. When people or anything else lets me down, I have art to help me keep my chin up.
See more of Christy's work at: http://iwantyerbum.deviantart.com/
August 30, 2010
quintessential quotes
"My paintings are not about what is seen. They are about what is known forever in the mind."
Agnes Martin
August 27, 2010
Illustrated Blogger and Artist Michael Nobbs: Blogosphere and Wales
I am really excited to bring you this next artist interview with Michael Nobbs. He is a full-time artist, blogger and tea drinker (not necessarily in that order) he has been blogging since 2004. His art and process is a testimony to several modalities of art-Art is healing, empowering, and inspiring, I also love that he totally embraces the Internet as a canvas for creativity and success.
Tell us your story.
In the late 1990s, when I was around 30, I was diagnosed with ME/CFS
(http://www.meassociation.org.In the late 1990s, when I was around 30, I was diagnosed with ME/CFS
began to dream about becoming an artist. About that time I also discovered the work and blogs of two artists, Keri Smith http://www.kerismith.com) and Danny Gregory http://www.dannygregory.com) and became very excited by the idea of drawing and illustrated blogging.
Eventually, I began my own illustrated blog (http://blog.michaelnobbs.com)
illustrated journal, The Beany (http://www.michaelnobbs.com/
These days I'm lucky enough to work full time as an artist and blogger. Increasingly I blog about sustainable creativity, how to remain creative and get the Important Work Done despite the constraints of limited energy. I still publish the Beany and later this will be launching a new blog, that will be dedicated to illustrated blogging about my life on the side of my hill in Wales.
What does it mean to be an illustrated blogger?
Illustrated blogging is simply being lucky enough to draw a picture and then write about it (just like on Monday mornings at school when we wrote half a page of writing about our weekend and then draw a picture to go with it!)
Can you talk about the Beany and your Blog Substainly Creative?
The Beany is my illustrated journal, a sort of blog-in-print.
I began publishing it in 2004, produced three black and white paperbacks. After a hiatus while I studied part-time for my MA, I produced. The Beany #4 earlier this year, a full colour version sold as a limited edition hardback, paperback and ebook. The Beany #5 is in the pipeline.
The Beany is really about finding (and drawing) life's small pleasures.
My blog, Sustainably Creative, is aimed at people, like myself who for whatever reason are limited in energy. I hope to show that it is possible to stay creative even when energy is limited, and how even doing small creative acts on a regular basis can build over time into a substantial body of work (and a creative career).
What are the Pros and Cons of Blogging?
I'm a huge fan of blogging. Through blogging I've met artists I admire, been inspired and also earn my living. How can there be any cons?
What is the greatest thing about the internet and social media for an
artist?
The fact that we can sidestep traditional gatekeepers, a take our work directly to the audience. Artists can all suddenly be there own publicists, publishers and gallery owners if they choose.
How does nature, the land, landscape,the environment affect our
creativity
I don't think I can generalise for other artists, but for me, living in a beautiful spot in rural west Wales, is a big boost to my creativty. I think city life would be too exhausting, and probably leave me little energy for being creative (though I do like to visit The Big City from time to time). So, whilst my work isn't directly effected by the landscape I live in, I do think my ability to be creative is.
Tell us a little bit about your own art practice.
I work as and when my energy allow, but try and doing a little something every day. When I first started to draw I predominantly worked with a sketchbook and pen, often scanning work afterwards to colour in Photoshop. Increasingly I work digitally, drawing directly in Photoshop with a very old graphics tablet bought on eBay.
I often work in bed (even though I'm lucky enough to have a studio in my garden).
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I hope my health will continue to improve. I'd love to be travelling more. Perhaps in five years time I'll be just about to board a plane for a three month drawing trip to New York. I'm sure there are lots of cafes to draw in in New York...
Do feel art can create social change?
I'm quite sure it can and does.
I'm quite sure it can and does.
What does art mean to you?
Drawing has added immensely to the quality of my life (I'm trying not to say that drawing saved my life, that sounds trite and over dramatic, but I do wonder it it did! It certainly helped me slow down, see things anew, and showed me world had a lot to offer when previously it had felt a very bleak place).
August 25, 2010
I am an Artist: Natalie Avondet
I have a feeling that Natalie's friends might call her an optimist. Read her interview and you will feel refreshed. Thanks for the interview Natalie!
Why am I an artist?
I am not happy otherwise. There is great joy in creating something from nothing. It's exciting to see what God allows me to produce.
What is my inspiration?
Everything. I enjoy combining old and new. I love old buildings, walls with chipped paint, anything worn out. Recreating that rustic look and overlapping it with something timely is where I am currently.
What is my philosophy?
Art should be organic. In that I mean it should come from within. It should be an extention of you. If you are going to try to change the world with your art, you need to be the change. If it is a statement you wish to make, you need to be living the statement. If it isn't something you feel, no one else will either.
Should patrons monies be refused if their dealings are causing harm to society ?
It depends on the harm and how it originated. If we look deeply we will not be able to find any company not causing harm to society in some fashion. You have to examine how and why and what is being done to rectify the situation.
In regards to the article in question, BP's funds should currently be allocated toward correcting the current situation. It's simply a matter of where the money is needed most. Respecting Mother Nature is what will keep us in existence. Once accomplished, you then have to examine how BP is harming society at that point in time.
How does nature affect creativity?
Nature creates creatiivity. It forms it. It is it. Nothing could be created without it. It is the the basis for color, form and beauty.
What is the role of the artist in society?
I believe the role of the artist is completely individual. However, as a whole, each artist should live a life of truth and goodness. Because negativity and rejection are part of the pursuit of art, artists are more grounded or need to be more grounded in their own sense of self. Therefore, artists should live their truths whatever that may be.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In 5 years, I hope to have more of what God has already given me. I hope that I can continue to evolve as an artist. I hope that my work continues to be enjoyed. I am making plans to broaden my life and creativity. However, there is one thing I have learned in my life is that plans have a way of changing. You have to have a map of where you wish to be and then learn to let go.
What is my ultimate goal as an artist?
My ultimate goal in life is to live it fully, contentedly, and as I desire. Art gives me that. In return, I want to give that back to my work.
What does art mean to me?
Art is therapy; it is expression; it is a passion. It gives me hope. Hope for a better day and a better tomorrow.
Have a look at Natalie's Website: http://natalieavondet.com/
August 24, 2010
I am an Artist: Mark Dotzler - Missouri
Lisa and I are always in search for as many different aesthetics, style choices, genres, etc. for our "I am an Artist" series. I was happy when we received a YES! from Mark. His sculptures are light and heavy in the same moment. They are eye catching and quiet in one glance as well. Take and look; let us and Mark know what you think.
Thanks for putting yourself out their Mark and answering our questions!
Why are you an artist?
Although I didn’t know my mother (she died when I was very young), I was always told stories about how incredibly creative she was in everything she did. Maybe that had something to do with me developing a love for art.
Before making art, I was in the business world and one day I found myself confronted with a very difficult decision, where if I did what was best for me I would become very wealthy in a year or two, but in the process three guys and their parents would get hurt. Our two companies were working together on a complicated multi-year pre-construction phase of a large historic redevelopment project. From a business standpoint, they deserved to get hurt and just fade away under their own debt. However, I found that I couldn't do it, even though I knew it would severely impact me later. After I made the decision to help them, they later broke an agreement with me. Through all of that I found that I wasn't cut out for business (due to a conscience) and decided then and there to become an artist. Those guys are now really huge. I sleep well......but not exactly where I thought I would.
A long time ago, I remember being at an art museum with an artist friend of mine and saying to her in front of one of (the) pieces "I could do that" and her saying to me, "yes, but we do". That comment has always resonated with me.
What is your inspiration?
I'm inspired by many of the things that I love, like metal, science, technology and the incredible advancements we're all witnessing now. I think there's incredible beauty all around us! I'm always on lookout for things I've never seen before and when I find something I really like, the ideas start flooding in. A lot of my early work was inspired by things I found in the trash or at junk yards. Materials with an intrinsic sort of cool elegance were always especially inspiring to me.
Most inspiring though are real world situations (as in art commissions) with all their interconnected relationships and concerns that need to be fully considered and addressed.
Would you consider yourself a designer or artist or both?
I've worked with many designers and architects over the years and their methods are much more predetermined or fixed than mine. Although my work may look designed, most of it is not. The work happens over time, through a careful process of trial and error (errors are costly!!). Sure I start with some ideas, but what I end up with usually isn’t even close to those original thoughts. That’s what makes art so wonderful and fun for me....creating things that I never fully imagined before they appeared.
What is your philosophy of Art?
Following and trusting my heart. Making honest work that attempts to subtly elevate the viewer.
Further, I think that our current winner take all societal philosophy (in most everything) is barbaric and completely uncivilized. It's amazing and sad to think about how far we've come and all of our incredible achievements, and yet socially we haven't advanced at all. We're still in the Roman Colosseum either fighting it out or watching the drawn out life or death spectacles of each others lives. Lets move on to something better. I think then wonderful things could start to happen through art. Our scarcity model only serves a tiny few, but is strangely and continuously drilled into us from all directions in society from birth on. Take a moment to think about why that may be and which part of society benefits the most from that kind of mass thinking.
Social Question: Check out the link below...
http://www.guardian.co.uk/culture/2010/jul/02/bp-arts-sponsorship-tate-protests
a.Any thoughts about this article? Should patrons monies be refused
if their dealings are causing harm to society ?
It's nice to see artists standing up to our sleazy corporate rulers. I think an argument could be made that most big corporate art patrons are causing serious harm to society in one way or another. We really need an honest major rethinking for the 21st Century, without the "special interests" completely dominating the conversation and drowning out everything else.
To me one of scariest things about the BP / US Regulatory disaster in the Gulf is mainstream media's recent reporting that the clean up is basically done and that most of the oil has evaporated or been cleaned up. Boy, that was quick!! After watching the oil gushing out for months, their telling us now everything is fine and to just move on like nothing ever happened. WOW....this opinion based reality is really giving me the creeps! I sure miss the days when reality was based on facts and not corporate media or government spin. Personally, I think there's giant plumes of oil under the surface, killing everything they engulf. It's sickening to think about, but I think that's what is really happening there below the surface. And those that try to expose it may not be heard, through subtle design. And the oil companies continue trying to get more deep water wells going as we speak, before even knowing how much damage has actually occurred in the Gulf. They're monsters!
and or
b. How does nature, the land, landscape, the environment affect our creativity?
Does it form it?
Nature surely affected my creativity! I spent a great deal of time living outdoors in the mountains when I was younger. Later, trips to lakes and rivers became a regular part of my life. At one point, I was even involved with an outdoor stress/challenge organization as a wildness instructor. I was also very fortunate to have had opportunities to sail in different parts of the South Pacific and the Windward Islands in the southern Caribbean. I love the great outdoors and have a very real and deep respect for nature.
For me, our creativity is nature!
What is the role of the artist in our society? and in Missouri?
Unfortunately, the artist's main role today seems to be little more than to reinforce our pyramidal social structure. Like would-be movie, business or sports stars, most serious artists are all trying to break through and win the approval of all those non-artist institutional art stars (with their god-like powers to decide who's a real artist and who is not). That's the system and the artists are just trying to survive in it. Culture unfortunately, is a very highly managed affair.
Where do you see yourself as an artist in 5 years?
There's no way of knowing in this kind of volatility. This has been a rough ten years for the whole world. I see and read things everyday that I never expected could happen. So maybe I'll be in the poorhouse if the bank hasn't taken it already. (Oh I forgot, that was the good old days when there was a house for the poor. Now there's only the street or a dumpster!) Maybe I'll return to a forest somewhere!
We're living though an incredibly volatile and fraudulent period, with large corporate interests (very few people) stealthily controlling everything (gov't, laws, military, money, media, food, health, etc.). And they always want more!! It's not about political parties or presidents who sound like they're on different sides, but the money interests always getting their way no matter who's in office. That's exactly what's happening and it's pretty scary. We're like those boiling frogs who can't feel the water's temperature slowly increasing.
This is a funny answer, when considering that I'm an extremely positive person! Maybe something good will happen soon!
What are your ultimate goals as an artist?
Making a living through art and contributing to a brighter future for all of us.
What does art mean to you?
A Raised Consciousness....Hope....Love
Mark's Website: http://www.markdotzler.com
August 23, 2010
Hey Facebook Fans!
Lisa and I are looking to have 500 fans on Facebook by the end of August! That doesn't leave us much time to promote, promote, and promote! In order to help with the process we will be picking 5 of our fans at random (when the number reaches 500) to send a FREE archival museum quality print (sized 8 x 10 inch each) of our new logo!
The original mixed media print was made by Lisa, to read the story check out her logo post. We will be receiving the prints from our dear friend Mark of Mark Lindsay Art. Both Lisa and I met Mark while we were in graduate school at John F. Kennedy University. We all hit it off right away and have been getting together ever since to discuss art shows together (check out videos of our art discussions HERE).
Mark Lindsay Art specializes in services like archival giclee prints, edition management, photoshop lessons, and more. Check out the website at www.marklindsayart.com
So, for a chance to win a new print of our lovely logo, and to help us increase our exposure, spread the word to your friends! We'd greatly appreciate it.
Thanks!
Lauren
The original mixed media print was made by Lisa, to read the story check out her logo post. We will be receiving the prints from our dear friend Mark of Mark Lindsay Art. Both Lisa and I met Mark while we were in graduate school at John F. Kennedy University. We all hit it off right away and have been getting together ever since to discuss art shows together (check out videos of our art discussions HERE).
Mark Lindsay Art specializes in services like archival giclee prints, edition management, photoshop lessons, and more. Check out the website at www.marklindsayart.com
So, for a chance to win a new print of our lovely logo, and to help us increase our exposure, spread the word to your friends! We'd greatly appreciate it.
Thanks!
Lauren
August 22, 2010
Faces on Facebook: Mini Interview with Hudson Nin
Our next Faces on Facebook interview is with Hudson Nin. She is amazing musician and song writer. I actually know Hudson, we worked together at mental health agency for marginalized children in Oakland. CA. I remember one Christmas celebration she sang for the kids and everyone was blown away. She has an amazing gift that she shares with world. As a 2-D artist I am always in awe by performance artists. The way that they can move an individual and a crowd in the present moment is inspiring and mind boggling to me.
As I have been trying to post this I am kind of frustrated with Blogger they do not have an easy way to share audio in our posts.Hudson sent some amazing music that she created. If you want to hear her amazing music send me an e-mail I will send it to you. artismoving@gmail.com
Hudson thank you for being part of our AIM's Art tribe. You fully embrace the power of art and its value and dis-value in our culture-a pragmatic visionary you are
I am a singer/songwriter first. That is my passion. It's a part of me, like breathing. In the 90's, I was co-founder of an award-winning original rock band in San Diego called 'Crying Out Loud', later renamed 'HudsonRider.' I wrote or co-wrote all of the songs for the group and I was the lead singer. Since then, I've turned my attention to non-fiction writing. I am completing a Bachelors in English with an emphasis in professional writing and will graduate in September.
Ideally I want to use my music and writing to leave my own unique imprint on the world.
What does Art, Music, Writing, mean to you?
I feel the most myself and the least judgmental when I'm making art. If I am truly in the flow, writing and music have the ability to transport me to a plane where there is no room for the ugly censor. There is only beauty and unexplored terrain. I get to live in that world for awhile and forget all the craziness. It's a tremendous gift.
Can the Arts create social change--can it change the world? Is art moving? The arts have a long-standing history of effecting social change, and I think this will continue. That said, I don't believe American culture embraces the arts in a way that allows artists to earn a decent living and have true freedom of expression. We tend to categorize, marginalize, and quantify our art based on the marketplace and its demands. Beauty for beauty's sake seems like a foreign concept to many people. I feel the most myself and the least judgmental when I'm making art. If I am truly in the flow, writing and music have the ability to transport me to a plane where there is no room for the ugly censor. There is only beauty and unexplored terrain. I get to live in that world for awhile and forget all the craziness. It's a tremendous gift.
Here's the change that I'd like to see: artists that work diligently and consistently at their craft are paid well, and they have affordable health insurance and a retirement plan just like everyone else. Most importantly, they have the ability to do work they love. To me, this is the greatest use of our human potential. What a different world it would be if more people earned a living doing what they love.
Great art can move me (and often does). So the answer is yes, art is moving.
Thanks for asking. :)
August 21, 2010
Is art becoming more interactive?
Last week Lisa and I spent some time in the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts looking, interacting with, and experiencing TechnoCRAFT. I have to say I was pretty blown away.
It is not the best art show I have ever seen. And, I don't think that was the point. I was enamored with the exhibition because a museum dedicated it's entire space to craft and design. Where is the art world headed? I never thought I would see the day when CRAFT was in a museum that didn't have "folk" or "craft" on the side of the building. I was giddy with excitement.
In my opinion, the whole point of the show was to let the consumer/viewer have some or all control over the final product/artwork. Companies like Puma and Jones Soda have been asking their patrons to participate in the design of their product for quite some time.
What happens when an artist starts asking for his viewer to paint the last brush stroke?
I also want to bring attention to the new art craze over the iPad. I do not have much experience with it personally, but really only hear awesome things about it. And, after reading the NY Times article focusing on all of the new art installation and interactive projects that have jumped on the iPad bandwagon, I think we can only get more interconnected, involved, and interactive from here.
So, is the art world becoming more interactive? Is technology the reason?
It is not the best art show I have ever seen. And, I don't think that was the point. I was enamored with the exhibition because a museum dedicated it's entire space to craft and design. Where is the art world headed? I never thought I would see the day when CRAFT was in a museum that didn't have "folk" or "craft" on the side of the building. I was giddy with excitement.
In my opinion, the whole point of the show was to let the consumer/viewer have some or all control over the final product/artwork. Companies like Puma and Jones Soda have been asking their patrons to participate in the design of their product for quite some time.
What happens when an artist starts asking for his viewer to paint the last brush stroke?
I also want to bring attention to the new art craze over the iPad. I do not have much experience with it personally, but really only hear awesome things about it. And, after reading the NY Times article focusing on all of the new art installation and interactive projects that have jumped on the iPad bandwagon, I think we can only get more interconnected, involved, and interactive from here.
So, is the art world becoming more interactive? Is technology the reason?
August 20, 2010
Faces on Facebook: Mini Interview with Susan Stopinski-Washington
I have to say I am completely inspired by our series Faces on Facebook. There are so many amazing people out there,who believe in the power of ART. I am totally engaged and I love to hear their stories. Our interview today is with Susan Stopinski her story is really empowering. For me this interview is reminding that art and its process has the potential to lead one into full engagement on all levels--mind, body, spirit. All I can say to myself and you all do art and never stop!
It makes life magical.
Thank you Susan for being part of the Art is Moving tribe. -Lisa
It makes life magical.
Thank you Susan for being part of the Art is Moving tribe. -Lisa
My name is Susan Stopinski and I am a mixed-media artist. My original journey with art began with poetry as a child. Everybody starts somewhere and I think it's amazing where our journeys take us and why. I began to paint and create torn paper collages of women about 5 years ago when my daughter was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 26. The silence with which it entered our families lives needed a voice. For myself, that voice became paint and torn bits of beautiful papers that ultimately created a series of women I call "The Altered Lives of Women"Life is a story. Yours and mine.
We are not so different from each other.
We have all been altered in some way ,shape or form.
WHAT DOES ART MEAN TO YOU?
To give a voice to what you see, hear, feel,question and utimately believe. It is therapeutic and spiritual. Healing tensions, questions, giving direction. For me,I can "hear" when I paint. I think art ,in all forms, can help you come to grips with stories that do not always turn out well, or ones that are in process. Even the joyful stories take me to places within myself where I am changed and end up seeing people or circumstances in a different light just by taking the time to step aside from the "moment" and simply create. I believe that everyone wants, in some way, to identify with someone or something. If one can create and connect to that deep place within another where there is this "YES! Thats it!" moment, and breathe just to think that someone was aware. That just makes me smile.
To give a voice to what you see, hear, feel,question and utimately believe. It is therapeutic and spiritual. Healing tensions, questions, giving direction. For me,I can "hear" when I paint. I think art ,in all forms, can help you come to grips with stories that do not always turn out well, or ones that are in process. Even the joyful stories take me to places within myself where I am changed and end up seeing people or circumstances in a different light just by taking the time to step aside from the "moment" and simply create. I believe that everyone wants, in some way, to identify with someone or something. If one can create and connect to that deep place within another where there is this "YES! Thats it!" moment, and breathe just to think that someone was aware. That just makes me smile.
CAN ART CREATE SOCIAL CHANGE? CAN IT CHANGE THE WORLD?
Art changes people. I don't believe the focus is on it changing the world. I believe that if, one day at a time we do what we can do in our pockets of the world where we are placed then change occurs all around us. The wonderful thing about art is the ability of the artist to open up and show vulnerability. If this shows in his/her work, if the artist can create and connect to that deep place within another human being where there is this "YES! Thats it!" moment, and they breathe just to think that someone was aware...that kind of individual heart piercing just makes me smile because we must be aware and changing ourselves before we can be aware and change anything outside of us. I am honored to be a part of the art world where I get the privilege of walking with others as they discover their niches, and I more fully discover mine.
Art changes people. I don't believe the focus is on it changing the world. I believe that if, one day at a time we do what we can do in our pockets of the world where we are placed then change occurs all around us. The wonderful thing about art is the ability of the artist to open up and show vulnerability. If this shows in his/her work, if the artist can create and connect to that deep place within another human being where there is this "YES! Thats it!" moment, and they breathe just to think that someone was aware...that kind of individual heart piercing just makes me smile because we must be aware and changing ourselves before we can be aware and change anything outside of us. I am honored to be a part of the art world where I get the privilege of walking with others as they discover their niches, and I more fully discover mine.
IS ART MOVING?
What a great world we live in when we use technology for all the right reasons! I am meeting so many people on art sites that are such an inspiration to me. What a time to live in when your voice can be heard all over the world while you are at home! Looking forward to making many new friends in the art world and beyond! Thanks Lauren and Lisa for all you do with Art Is Moving!!
I am Artist: Jon Bidwell-Kansas
We are in the mid of August and Art is Moving is continuing our virtual I am Artist road trip through out Kansas and Missouri. Currently we have stopped to interview Kansas photographer Jon Bidwell. His interview is quite frank and we appreciate his candor.
How did it feel to be part of the first all digital fine art photography gallery in Kansas City. Was it a peak experience?
http://www.guardian.co.uk/
Any thoughts about this article?
How does nature, the land, landscape,the environment affect our creativity?
Why are you an artist?
I'm just living this way because I've never known any other.
What is your inspiration?
Wind, trees, clouds, laughter, breath, friends, dark coffee, sex, women, drugs, rock n' roll... everything worth living for. The fact that I'm here. I feel very blessed for that.
Predominately in our mass culture everyone has a digital camera--what separates you from those folks are not? Do you have philosophy about this?
Was it a peak experience in terms of the Jungian psychological context? No. It was a necessary business move that has been required & requested of by my clientele since I began doing this (photography as fine art) 11 years ago. But from an emotional standpoint, it felt gratifying to have such a positive turnout. 11 years ago when I started shooting exclusively digitally, my colleagues told me I was out of my mind. Then I began selling prints, in limited editions, but at different sizes. Which also drove traditionalists insane. And then I began selling my work and that was the final straw. One older professional in the region told me that, "I was ruining the art form." Others (students at The Kansas City Art Institute) told me that Photoshop was a "fake tool for artists who aren't really artists..." And lastly, my favorite, "That digital will never look as good as film, nor be accepted as fine art."
I will be the first to admit that I have a rebellious streak. So I set out to prove them wrong. Opening the gallery was a personal business move as I said, and yes, one that I'm excited about as it as it blends the best that the physical and digital have to offer. They are complementary, not separate. In September of last year The Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art asked me to come do a slideshow and lecture on my experience as the only digital fine art photographer in the city, for at that point, a decade. I guess this is what separates me from everyone else with a digital camera.
That said, I am not trying to compete with anyone. I am just trying to push the parameters of what is possible in the very nacent evolutionary step of a specific artistic genre. Digital has only been viable for 11 years. Far less according to some. The first daguerreotype was developed in 1837.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/
Any thoughts about this article?
I do not have any personal perspective to lend on this issue, as I have supported myself as an artist, or through side jobs earlier on, since 1996. However, in the current economy, I believe that the art community, endowments, foundations, museums, etc. cannot afford to pick and choose from whom their donation money comes. Within reason, of course. BP didn't do anything illegal technically. They just fucked up severely and lied about it. As has our government. So are we to turn our backs on all Federal arts funding as well? Absolutely not. BP needs to get their shit together, give that guy a new logo for that fella's flyers and continue supporting the most fundamental aspect of our civilization - the arts.
How does nature, the land, landscape,the environment affect our creativity?
Nature and the environment are the only things more important than the advancement & betterment of our civilization, the arts included, as aforementioned. Just because we take BP's money doesn't mean we cannot, as a subculture, protest against the current energy sources. Artists can push our society towards accepting a cleaner future. Maybe the oil spill is exactly what was needed. Nothing happens without reason. It is us, the artists, who move culture forward, and so let us protest by showing beauty and both disaster; remind everyone constantly of all that we will lose if we lose environmental sustainability. Even BP will change. They too are only people in the end.
What is the role of the artist in our society?
What is the role of the artist in our society?
I have absolutely no idea what the role of an artist in our society is. I don't care honestly. All I know is as long as there are artists, and people who love art and buy it, our western civilization is still progressing forward. When people stop buying art, that will be a dark day.
The role of the artist in Kansas?
To let everyone know we got some damn pretty sunflowers & sunsets & such!
Where do you see yourself as an artist in 5 years?
To let everyone know we got some damn pretty sunflowers & sunsets & such!
Where do you see yourself as an artist in 5 years?
I hope to be retired from active photographic work in five years and marketing my existing portfolio as I move on to other creative interests. I will always shoot, but I am 38 and there are kids out there who are better than me already. I want to kick back and watch them take it to the next level.
What are your ultimate goals as an artist?
What are your ultimate goals as an artist?
To make money and promote the bohemian lifestyle, teach younger artists to not be pussies about the business aspect of art. To walk with their heads held high. Personally; to walk around always knowing that I did what I was put here to do to the best of my ability.
What does art mean to you?
It doesn't mean anything to me. It's all about what it means to everyone else. Whether they love it or hate it. I am person. I'd like to say I don't care, but I do. That's the only reason I started taking photographs in the first place. To impress girls. To impress my friends. I never took a class in photography. I have a psychology degree. I just taught myself & got lucky. I don't think about it too much beyond that.
August 18, 2010
I am an Artist: Dale Augustson - Missouri
Dale tells us that he paints what he sees; I also think he paints what he feels. Just from the 3 images he provided you get a sense of the several moods and tones his paintings carry.
Thanks for the interview Dale!
Why are you an artist?
I am an artist because I am overflowing with ideas and need to express those ideas. I chose to do that through painting and stained glass, mostly painting. I work in acrylics and add textures and collage effects as the piece calls for.
What is your inspiration? Favorite medium?
My inspiration comes from everyday innate objects and from nature. I use leaves and rocks and twigs in my collage work. Acrylic paint always plays a part in work. Color , form and shape are key elements. Not discounting something I learned many years ago in art school; Simplicity is the key to a good design, i.e. don't overwork it.
What is your philosophy of Art?
My philosophy of art is to always try to create a piece that will be appealing to most if not all. I try to create thought provoking compositions. Titles are sometimes difficult because I would rather add a title that allows the viewer to think rather that offer a literal title.
Social Question: Check out the link below...
http://www.guardian.co.uk/culture/2010/jul/02/bp-arts-sponsorship-tate-protests
Any thoughts about this article? Should patrons monies be refused
if their dealings are causing harm to society ?
We all need to take a stand personally and certainly if a companies agenda does not fit into helping the United States and the world, then we do without the funding.There are plenty of teachers of art like me that are always going to help people appreciate as well as contribute to the arts. By this I mean students of the arts will help by creating and continuing the process. It doesn't always have to be about funding. There are many fat cats at the companies as well as within the arts organizations. We have to pick and chose.Is the funding being used properly. I think most times it is.
How does nature, the land, landscape, the environment affect our creativity?
Does it form it?
Nature plays huge role in art and with artists. Many artists are very environmentally conscious and their subject conveys that. I am not an extremely environmentally conscious painter, I paint form what comes from my thoughts and the images that form in my mind. I form the images based on what I see.
What is the role of the artist in our society? and in Missouri ?
The role of the artist is duplicate what he/she sees or imagine what could be. To further expand the boundaries and to create beauty and to keep using the imagination and talent that God gave us.
Where do you see yourself as an artist in 5 years?
In five years I will still be painting and perhaps selling more of my work .
What are your ultimate goals as an artist?
My goals will be to continue teaching painting and stained glass and producing more competition as more students learn.
What does art mean to you?
To me art means expression, and contributing to society by using my imagination without getting too weird.
Check out Dale's Work:
http://www.bestofmissourihands.com/artworksbydale.htm
http://www.smugmug.com/search/index.mg?searchWords=dale+augustson&searchType=global
http://www.hawthorngalleries.com/artist/profile/Augustson/40
Thanks for the interview Dale!
Why are you an artist?
I am an artist because I am overflowing with ideas and need to express those ideas. I chose to do that through painting and stained glass, mostly painting. I work in acrylics and add textures and collage effects as the piece calls for.
What is your inspiration? Favorite medium?
My inspiration comes from everyday innate objects and from nature. I use leaves and rocks and twigs in my collage work. Acrylic paint always plays a part in work. Color , form and shape are key elements. Not discounting something I learned many years ago in art school; Simplicity is the key to a good design, i.e. don't overwork it.
What is your philosophy of Art?
My philosophy of art is to always try to create a piece that will be appealing to most if not all. I try to create thought provoking compositions. Titles are sometimes difficult because I would rather add a title that allows the viewer to think rather that offer a literal title.
Social Question: Check out the link below...
http://www.guardian.co.uk/culture/2010/jul/02/bp-arts-sponsorship-tate-protests
Any thoughts about this article? Should patrons monies be refused
if their dealings are causing harm to society ?
We all need to take a stand personally and certainly if a companies agenda does not fit into helping the United States and the world, then we do without the funding.There are plenty of teachers of art like me that are always going to help people appreciate as well as contribute to the arts. By this I mean students of the arts will help by creating and continuing the process. It doesn't always have to be about funding. There are many fat cats at the companies as well as within the arts organizations. We have to pick and chose.Is the funding being used properly. I think most times it is.
How does nature, the land, landscape, the environment affect our creativity?
Does it form it?
Nature plays huge role in art and with artists. Many artists are very environmentally conscious and their subject conveys that. I am not an extremely environmentally conscious painter, I paint form what comes from my thoughts and the images that form in my mind. I form the images based on what I see.
What is the role of the artist in our society? and in Missouri ?
The role of the artist is duplicate what he/she sees or imagine what could be. To further expand the boundaries and to create beauty and to keep using the imagination and talent that God gave us.
Where do you see yourself as an artist in 5 years?
In five years I will still be painting and perhaps selling more of my work .
What are your ultimate goals as an artist?
My goals will be to continue teaching painting and stained glass and producing more competition as more students learn.
What does art mean to you?
To me art means expression, and contributing to society by using my imagination without getting too weird.
Check out Dale's Work:
http://www.bestofmissourihands.com/artworksbydale.htm
http://www.smugmug.com/search/index.mg?searchWords=dale+augustson&searchType=global
http://www.hawthorngalleries.com/artist/profile/Augustson/40
August 17, 2010
Faces on Facebook: Mini Interview with Jelena Mrkich
Today in our Faces on Facebook series we are hopping across the big pond to Australia where are latest mini-interview is with Jelena Mrkich. Jelena is really doing some powerful work. I love her practice of facilitating transformative workshops on the northern beaches of Australia. Also, for me this interview really underlines one of my favorite things about the Internet- the ability to globally connect. Thanks! Jelena for sharing your empowering story and being part of Art is Moving FB Art tribe. Our web of connection is getting stronger.
Biography
Jelena Mrkich is a Visionary Artist, Artisan, Transpersonal Art Therapist, Workshop Facilitator and Energy Intuitive based on the northern beaches in Sydney, Australia. Born to express life via creativity her work assists people to live a more authentic life via creative expression. Jelena’s vibrant and evocative art has been published in Australia, Europe, UK and USA. Her creative, therapeutic and empowering sessions, classes and workshops include; Soul Work Sessions, The Art of Being You, a six week creative course and Pregnant Goddess, belly painting sessions for mum’s to be. Both Jelena’s one-on-one sessions and group work are a creative expansion and transformational exploration of who you really are. She is also the creator of Chakrascopes, custom made energy imprints and regularly writes for her online blog, a cup of CreativiTea. She also bakes a mean batch of cookies, really likes blank paper and has a serious thing for dragonflies. For more about Jelena please visit: www.jelenamrkich.com
I’ve often said creativity is like air to me. I’m not sure what I would be doing, or how I would be doing, if I wasn’t creating in some way. I see art as one of the physical expressions of creativity, as one of the manifestations of the creative impulse - the impulse which flows through our cells, our body and throughout the entire cosmos. For me art or creating art is a significant element that helps sustain and maintain me.
Can you talk about your empowering classes and workshops that are held on the northern beaches in Sydney, Australia? Art and creativity are therapeutic, healing and transformative tools to assist you go beyond the mask of everyday living, to help you live a more authentic life. Like my one-on-one sessions, the classes and workshops that I create and run all hold the same vision, to help you live the life you were born to create.
Biography
Jelena Mrkich is a Visionary Artist, Artisan, Transpersonal Art Therapist, Workshop Facilitator and Energy Intuitive based on the northern beaches in Sydney, Australia. Born to express life via creativity her work assists people to live a more authentic life via creative expression. Jelena’s vibrant and evocative art has been published in Australia, Europe, UK and USA. Her creative, therapeutic and empowering sessions, classes and workshops include; Soul Work Sessions, The Art of Being You, a six week creative course and Pregnant Goddess, belly painting sessions for mum’s to be. Both Jelena’s one-on-one sessions and group work are a creative expansion and transformational exploration of who you really are. She is also the creator of Chakrascopes, custom made energy imprints and regularly writes for her online blog, a cup of CreativiTea. She also bakes a mean batch of cookies, really likes blank paper and has a serious thing for dragonflies. For more about Jelena please visit: www.jelenamrkich.comWhat does art mean to you?
Can you talk about your empowering classes and workshops that are held on the northern beaches in Sydney, Australia?
Whether you are contemplating life choices, embarking on a new path, in the middle of a crisis, wanting to get to know yourself better or need some soul nourishing time out – via creative expression, art therapy tools, empowering techniques and a client centred approach my classes and workshops meet you to assist you where you are at, wherever that may be. From those who yearn to reawaken their creative self to those who are creatives by profession, all levels of artistic ability are welcome.
Drawing upon art and creativity as tools for expression, not impression these classes and workshops are not about creating a perfect artwork rather it is about allowing yourself space to express from your heart centre. It’s about assisting you to uncover, connect to and express your authentic self - it is the guide to your highest potential.
Can art create social change - can it change the world?
Humanity is the totality of each and every single one of us. Art has not only been a vehicle for encouraging visionary movements, shifting perspectives, communication and exchanging information in our outer world, but its very process holds the ability to transform us from the inside, out. Change any part of the whole, and the whole changes. From this very real ground roots and cellular level, art can, has and does change the world.
Is art moving?
Art flows, grows and continuously evolves, it’s definitely moving. I think if art wasn’t moving, it would be like water, frozen. However, if art ever froze, and I hear a lot of people saying they feel their inner artist is frozen, I think it simultaneously holds the ability to thaw out. Therefore, in effect it would continue to be… moving!
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