| How did you get started as an artist? |
| | When I was in third grade, I won ten dollars in an art contest, and I guess that was the beginning of my career! I’ve always loved creating things and I have a very vivid imagination. Initially I painted landscapes, but the minute I had completed my first abstract painting, I realized that I’d discovered my true passion. It’s all been quite spontaneous and fun. |
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| What does your work say about you as an artist? |
| | I love to experiment with color and to infuse energy into my work. People often describe my paintings using words that I think very closely describe who I am; light-hearted, energetic, peaceful.
It’s amazing to me that every time I look at a painting I’ve just completed, it portrays exactly what I was feeling during the creation.
The more I paint, the more I realize the value of painting what is honest and initiative – what feels right to me. And there is no greater feeling than hearing that something that I have painted has made someone else feel peaceful, encouraged, happy, inspired, optimistic… quite simply that it has made them feel good.
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| How do you feel living in the Pacific Northwest influences your work?
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| | For me, the Pacific Northwest is one of the most inspiring places in the world. I’m originally from North Carolina, which is also incredibly beautiful, however when I first visited Oregon I felt like I was at home. Completely relaxed and inspired. There is something about all of the lush greenery, sparkling rivers, and of course Mt. Hood that fuels my passion for painting. |
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| Could you tell me a little bit about your creative process? |
| | When beginning a painting, I have a color scheme and painting method in mind, and then I just start painting and see where it goes. Sometimes I will have an idea in mind for a painting or a series for several days before it becomes clear, and I realize exactly where to go with it. I don’t draw or sketch paintings beforehand; I simply paint what I’m inspired to paint. And I’m inspired by nature, the ocean, traveling to new places, the changing of seasons – just to name a few. |
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| Have you ever felt misunderstood as an artist, and if so could you describe it?
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| | I’m somewhat unique in my way of thinking, and perhaps some people don’t always understand my thought process. I take a creative approach to most things, and I believe that has been generally positive in my life. |
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| Do you have any suggestions for artists who are just starting to sell their work online? |
| | Never give up, and don’t be afraid. Something that has worked for me is to keep a favorite painting or an inspirational quote around, to tap into when feeling discouraged or uninspired. There are many great online resources to help with the marketing aspects of selling art online, as well as some incredibly talented artists with a lot of great insight. Just have fun and enjoy the process. |
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