Tags
artist, arts, interview, pve, watercolor
Tell us about yourself.
If I could draw the answer to this question, it certainly would not be a straight line. I am “PvE” an artist, wife, mother, sister, and friend to many and a keen observer of life-style. Some might say, I have always been drawn to capturing what I see with line and color. I love fine lines and happy colors. Over the years, I just have kept working at my artwork while raising my family and keeping the home fires going. I am a mother of 3 wife, and love my home and working from my home studio. My about is really “to design, create and inspire an artful life.”
Besides making art, what do you do, do you have a day job?
Besides creating art, I keep a blog and have been posting nearly every day for six years. The connections that I have made are incredible and much of my work comes from my blog readers. By keeping the blog, it has helped me to get instant feedback and also reinforced my own originality. It really means the world to me to know that I might be making an impression on a reader with my artwork and my words. Much of my focus is positive and enthusiastic. My art makes people smile. I am a huge fan of social media and having a presence on the web.
Where does your inspiration come from?
Inspiration can come in many forms. Since much of my work is commissioned, a deadline can be very motivating. I am inspired by everything which tends to be somewhat four season based. Autumn interjects a warmth, Winter is invigorating, Spring is colorful and Summer seems to be easy to love. I love homes, people, pets, parties, weddings and shops and things that make one feel a sense of belonging. Reading “What’s a dog for?” Listening to Andrew Bird, Andrew Belle and love jazz. I do love travel, skiing, playing tennis, running, walking my dog and then making art.
How would you describe your creative process?
My creative process is perhaps a bit obsessive compulsive. Before I begin to actually get to work, I do a ton of gathering and collecting and editing. It has to be in my head before I can get it to the paper. I like to have things lined up before I begin. I know many artists thrive on chaos but I love having my area organized and my table clean when I work. What can I say, I like to make my bed and then get to work.
How do you get out of your creative blocks?
I cannot say that I have creative ruts, because I always have work and am always thinking of the next work. So in many ways when I am working, I have to stay focused to finish what I have before I can go to the next and that takes discipline because some things are more exciting. It’s a bit like finishing your veggies before dessert.
What is the most positive and inspirational thing about being an artist
The joy it brings me and to others.
What is the most difficult thing about being an artist for you?
The most difficult thing about the creative profession is that people tell me that they cannot draw a straight line all the time, what they do not realize is that straight lines are over rated and that it is work just like any other job. It is work but it is also so rewarding.
What are your biggest challenges to creating art and how do you handle them?
Biggest challenge for me is to let perfectionism go. Get to work. Get it done. Do it again. Sometimes I might not be satisfied and the important thing is to get it done and then keep doing it.
If you could visit the studio of any artist or designer, who would it be?
If I could peak inside of any studio, I would want to go back in time to Cecil Beaton, Ludwig Bemelmans.
Has any advice influenced you?
I suppose the advice that has influenced me and my work would be my parents, my family, and that of many loyal clients who are supportive and encouraging and love my artwork.
Do you have any advice for artists just starting out?
My advice to other artists who are starting is to start. Start and find a style that works. Even if it is one thing, just keep doing that one thing over and over until you find your work taking shape.
How do you balance work and family?
The reason I do what I do is that I am able to balance being a Mother and an artist. Now that my sons are in college and my daughter in 8th grade gives me time for my artwork but I always found time. I love preparing home cooked meals, walking our dog, doing nice things that make me feel lucky to do what I do.
Do you have any main goals for now or the future?
My main goals for 2013 are already in progress and I am very excited to be launching a brand new site which will really reflect me and more of my work. The internet has changed and people are starved for time, so grabbing one’s attention immediately is so crucial. With a new site, I hope to attract more of the customer who wants my work, understands the “cache” and my niche. I plan to have new artwork seasonally and to limit the number of commissions. I also plan to have a book published with my work. A sort of coffee table book with my artwork and quotes. I will continue to free lance work for several clients, J.McLaughlin, Sheridan Road and several other private repeat clients who come back for annual artwork or custom commissions. I also want to create a line of cards and items to sell with my artwork licensed. In ten years, I know that my work will be in demand and that it will continue to make me very happy.
Is there something you are currently working on, or are excited about starting that you can tell us about?
I am working on a job for a client all the way in Dubai. It is for an internet business involving food.
Do you have a blog or website?
My website is pvedesign.com
My blog is pvedesign.blogspot.com
Thanks so much, Patricia!