Recently I helped hang an art show for the Utah County Art Board at the Health and Justice Building in Provo, UT. While enjoying the beautiful art I was hanging I also visited with some of my artist friends.
By asking a few questions I began to understand the climb, defining moments and strength that each of them needed to prevail in the art world. The guidance and inspiration form these artists that I call friends helps me figure out how to forge the creator's path. It's not too late to try new ways and discover why you do what you do. Role models bless our lives and our careers.
Marilyn and Bill Brown
"Marilyn is my inspiration" says Bill as Marilyn smiles in her petite and demure way. This delightful couple lives in Hobble Creek Canyon and gleans creative muse from the beauty surrounding their home. Marilyn reads about western artists to find her own voice in her paintings. Her advise to aspiring artists is "Keep painting. If you don't like how it's turning out, paint over it and start again." When it comes to naming a painting the location comes in to play. Sometimes a name comes first and the painting follows. When asked about their favorite quotes, these were mentioned. The Glass is half full and An Elephant can be eaten one bite at a time. Creighton Abrams
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| Winter Water by Marilyn Brown |
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| Old Man and The Sea by Bill Brown |
Jolynn Forman
The reason Jolynn loves being an artist is the freedom it provides. There is also a social camaraderie where artists become friends. Our work is different but the same. Some favorite inspiration comes from Richard Schmidt , Daniel Keys and Alla Prima.
Her advise to artists is "Expect to take time at your craft. Develop a style. Don't expect to get rich quick. At times it can be lonely." Her go to quote is Every child is an artist. The trouble is how to remain one as he grows up. Pablo Picasso
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| The Walk Home by Jolynn Forman |
Marilyn Hayes
Being an artist teaches me how to see the world in small ways that most people don't even notice. She learns to love the land around her. Being outdoors is the perfect way to be inspired. She names her paintings by the location or the feeling it evokes. Her inspiration comes from the Lord. He makes the beauty she paints.
Linda Paulsen
The thrill of creation is the ability to see things differently. Linda is inspired by the Supreme Creator. Her artist library consists of children's books and collections of classical artists such as Monet, Renoir and Matisse.
Her advise to budding artists is "Don't give up. Sometimes you have to go back to basics to find your own voice. You are not the same as other artists. You are you. Learn from others but be true to your own style."
Linda is also a writer and a poet She has a passion for words. Finding the right title for a painting is part of the joy. It is the final touch even though sometimes the title comes first. You want the viewer to connect with the painting and not be left out so the title is an important component. Her favorite quote is "Beauty is not optional" Terry Tempest Williams.
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| Finding Gold by Linda Paulsen |
Speaking with these lovely artists reinforces my resolve to continue creating. I hope it had sparked a fame for you too.
If you are in Provo be sure to visit the show and look for my glass mosaics. All works of art in the exhibit are for sale. I might see you there.
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