Mount Royal University Video Interview: More Q & A's

Saturday is the day. Hair and make-up at 9 am and interview at 10:30 am. Wish me luck. Although I have pondered and eloquently answered all of the interview questions in advance, I have a feeling I am not going to stick to the script. No surprise there.

5. Do you have any routines or rituals that you follow when you create a piece of art?

I wouldn't necessarily call them routines or rituals, but besides working from a headspace that is free of inhibitions and/or preconceived ideas, I aim to achieve 2 major things in a finished painting: 1. I aim to create work that is personal & unique and 2. I aim to create work that is esthetically pleasing. If I can achieve those two things, I consider the work successful even if no one else likes it or understands it.

 
6. What has been your proudest moment as an artist?

My proudest moment as an artist happened not that long ago: I went to Paris by myself at the beginning of December. To me, accomplishing this was the culmination of everything I’ve been working so hard to achieve. The best part about going to Paris was that at any given moment I would stop and realize that: I made it. I’m here! I am an artist and I have an artist’s budget and I made this happen. It was incredible. 

 7. Can you see yourself doing this for the rest of your life?

Absolutely. I don’t think I have a choice. I love it too much. And I’m good at it! The part that I love the most about my job is teaching others my techniques and philosophies and seeing their lives transform as they become empowered, confident artists.

8. You described a journey from brokenness into empowerment in your bio. What were you referencing?

I was making reference to the person I was: Extremely type A, controlling in every aspect of my life, afraid, unhappy and not really understanding what my purpose in this world was. Empowerment came as a result of shedding the idea of the person who I thought I should be VS the person that I am. 

9. Can you tell me about what you are currently working on?

I am working on a series called: After Paris. My pallet is greys and whites, golds and silvers and lots of plaster as a texture building material. I am also working on two commissions: One for a dentist office and the other for a private client about loss and regret. 

10. What would you say to someone thinking of pursuing art as a career?

Do it! Because it can be done! It’s possible to be a happy, successful artist and to not only be able to pay your rent, car and utilities but to also buy fancy shoes and to travel. 

11. How much of an influence did your family have in your art career?

Tons. Their encouragement and support are the reason why I am doing this today. When I quit my corporate job my parents asked me: If I could do anything in this world what would it be? At that point, I was afraid to tell them because I thought they would think I was crazy for chooing art. They didn’t. They were loving and supportive.