Tell us about yourself.
I work as an Accounting Manager for an art supply distribution company. Since I was young, I have always been involved with some form of creative art form-calligraphy, quilts, knitting, beading. I took an art class in the 8th grade, but lost my confidence because the art teacher was so critical of my work. From that point in my life, I didn’t think I could every draw or paint, and didn’t attempt to try again until my early 40’s. I tried calligraphy later in high school, but lost interest. About 15 years later, I taught myself quilting, knitting and crocheting, and for years I have been an avid fiber artist. I have made dozens of quilts, sweaters, hats and socks, but fiber arts does get expensive! Expressing creativity has always been very important to me, and being around art supplies in my occupation gave me inspiration to try sketching and painting.
What is a haiku? Why do you incorporate them in your artwork?
A Haiku is a 3 line Japanese poem that has a distinct syllable pattern. The first and third lines have 5 syllables, and the 2nd line has 7 syllables. I have lived around the U.S., and the Haiku’s express the memory I associate with a particular place I have lived or traveled to. Traveling is a very enriching experience, and I enjoy painting landscapes that are not just beautiful, but also unique. Many of the places I will paint are very isolated, and untouched.
What does art mean to you?
Creating art for me is a learning and growing process. Since I have started watercolor painting, I feel I am becoming more confident in my technique. I don’t think I will ever become bored with it because it’s a continuous learning process for me. The challenge of developing my style is my continuous motivation.
Making art is a very mindful event because it puts you ‘in the moment’. You can express a part of yourself that ultimately can be healing and fulfilling. It’s this feeling that means a lot to me, and it’s an escape that is productive and rewarding.
What are your favorite Bee Paper products?
The Bee Creative series is my favorite because the paper is outstanding quality. I really like the minimalist look of the covers, and it feels really good to flip through the pages. The watercolor paper absorbs the paints very well.
For people waiting to begin a hobby in art, what advice could you give them to help them get started?
I was given really good advice from another artist-be confident in yourself and your work. I had always admired paintings of others, but told myself that I could never draw or paint anything. In my early 40’s, I began painting, which led to learning how to sketch my paintings before I painted them. I am completely self-taught, and have borrowed a lot of books from the library on sketching and painting. It’s amazing how quickly you learn the basics, and from there you develop your own style. Practicing with a passion will help you gain confidence.
Follow Kerrie at @oregonknitter