It was February 19, 2012 that I conducted my first interview, right here on this weekly blog, with artist John McCartin. Since then I have been honored to have ninety artists submit to my questions. Almost all that I’ve asked have been willing to participate. It has been a pleasure and an interesting experience working with each artist. In every case we have come to know them better and have greatly benefited from their knowledge and years of experience.
It has been my desire, from the beginning of this blog in 2010, that it not just be about me, promoting what I do; instead, it has been my goal to be informative, educational, and inspirational. Featuring the work of other artists is just one way to bless the art community of which I am so privileged to be a part.
There is not a single artist that I’ve interviewed that has not had a lot to offer. The artists featured in 2019 are no different. If you’ve missed any of these interviews, I encourage you to check them out; you won’t be disappointed. (Click on photos to link to interviews)
Elizabeth Robbins is a premier painter of flowers. She says that the flowers she grows are like very best friends. “I walk out in the morning to water, prune and even talk to them, telling them how beautiful they are. When it’s time to paint them, it honestly feels as if they say to me, ‘Paint me, paint me!’ Roses in particular give me great joy. I have 90 rose bushes in my yard. They bring me such joy and happiness that it is an honor and a pleasure to immortalize them on canvas.”
John Budicin is a plein air painter. He’s been at it a long time, way before it became popular. His attitude toward painting on location is a healthy one…it’s all about learning and capturing the feeling of the place, he says. Its challenges always keep him humble, and if the work can be improved in the studio, he’s all for it.
Cherie Dawn Haas is a writer and dancer…and much, much more. She loves all things that involve creativity. She lives with her husband and two sons in Kentucky, where they manage a small vineyard and take care of their three dogs and 13 chickens. She has worked in the field publishing (specifically in the art community) since 2005, and is currently the Online Editor for Streamline Publishing, including Fine Art Today, PleinAir Today, and more.
Charlie Hunter – It’s difficult for me to put into words the impact Charlie Hunter’s work has on me, maybe that’s what makes it so great. Attempting to explain his work from an analytical point of view leaves one empty and unfulfilled. At least for me, there’s such an emotional depth to his work that it leaves me with a feeling of ineptitude when trying to comment on it.
Bill Kund is a highly respected, and in demand, photographer…the first photographer I have ever interviewed, by the way. His primary focus is Architectural and Interior photography. He has established a successful career even though making that change later in life. For those of you that think it is too late to begin a fine art career, Kund’s story will be inspiring. Now for the second part of the interview – Part 2.
Dave Santillanes is a brilliant painter and consistent award winner. His work is unique and easily distinguishable. No longer wishing to paint like his art heroes helped him find his own way. He marvels at the work of Sargent and Sorolla, for example, but doesn’t believe their work provides answers for his own.
Ann Kraft Walker – “Technical proficiency is developed through time and layers upon layers of multifaceted lessons. It is a never ending pursuit of which I have barely scratched the surface. The intellectual component is evident in that painting is cerebral as well as intuitive (I feel my work leans heavier on the intuitive side). The emotional aspect is deeply personal to each artist. My work is a response to something that strikes a chord in my heart. Spiritual, well that’s my favorite part. I believe that our ability to create is a gift from our Creator. For me personally, the spiritual component is the deepest and most meaningful. Creating for me is an act of worship, using the gift God has given in an effort to honor Him.”
John Pototschnik (Interviewed by Sonia Duggan) – In a world full of harsh reality, nothing can soften the mood and transport us to another place and time better than art. View one of John Pototschnik’s paintings and you’ll understand why. His rural landscapes and cityscapes effortlessly capture the serene beauty, and a certain familiarity, in a scene that resonates with his observer.
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I’m pleased to announce the release of my latest teaching video and book. The video and accompanying book, shown here, along with my first video, “Limited Palette Landscape”, include everything I’ve taught in my workshops. You can now take my oil painting workshop right in the comfort of your home, and for a lot less money than physically being present. (Click image to learn more)
To own an original painting from the book, please click HERE
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John Pototschnik is an Art Renewal Center Living Master. To view his art and bio, please click HERE.
