dA love for everyone! #87

                                    

Tell us what defines you as a person.

A positive outlook towards life and people. I love being creative, and very much enjoy the interaction with people who enjoy art, and their reactions to my work.

How did you find out about deviantART and why did you join the community?

I was recommended to the network by an artistic friend online. It differs from some of the other art social networks by its more youthful exuberance and passion for visual art of all varieties.

When and how did you discover your passion for art?

Quite young - I did art at school up to what is know GCSE standard, and got just a 'B'. The academic side of art didn't appeal to me, and I was already tending towards an aesthetic form of realism. So I decided to paddle my own canoe and taught myself from the age of about 20 how to paint. Before long, I was getting involved in the local art community, and then on-line as that sphere of interest gradually emerged.


What inspires you the most and when do you think your creativity is at its maximum?

I tend to paint in the winter. The light is subdued, and that helps to capture the tones rather than the colors. This works with portraiture and figurative work particularly well. I find that if a painting then seems anaemic, and lacking in vibrancy, then some re-working in the light of a summer's day does it wonders. I'm inspired by subtle facial expressions and quirky poses, combined with a sense of elegance. Light is also very important, and can be challenging at times - especially in acrylic where a lot of smoothing is required to capture the effect that watercolor or oils would more naturally create themselves. But that's worth it for the flexibility acrylics give you in other ways.

What do you think you'd be doing if you hadn't chosen this path?

I've written books, and had them published. I also have a day-job as a registered nurse at a district hospital. I'm a busy guy, but for me that makes life interesting and vibrant.

What do you think it's your most meaningful deviation and what makes it special? Does it have a story behind it?

Woman Bathing, which I've painted a few times. Very elegant, good lighting effects and textures, and seems to have broad general appeal.


Do you have any insecurities regarding your art?

Certainly - like most artists I agonize over work that doesn't feel finished, or whose flaws always dominate my view of my own work. We are our own worst critics.

Did art ever helped you to deal with your life problems?

Yes, mood can play a big part in the creative process. I can work through feelings subconsciously through the expression of art, both high and low.

What is the one thing you always wanted to do but never got a chance to?

At 45, there's still plenty of time left!


A few words for our fellow artists?

Stick at it - art can be a life-long companion that enhances your vision and connection to the world and the people around you.