Art Dept interview

As the winner of your category in the 2007 International Art Contest, how do you feel?

I am extremely exuberant and gratified about being selected by a diverse group
of artists in being selected as a first place winner for my work.

Please describe your current works and any plans for forthcoming exhibits.

My present works are abstract with a flair for the unknown. I will be entering many exhibits world wide in the future.

If any, in what ways have you seen changes in attitudes towards "art"?

Many changes in attitudes in art have been to extreme degree changes in color. Vivid and bold themes are predominant the subtle and calm impressionists are not seen as much any more.

Do you think that the fine artist will survive as technology replaces our skills?

More and more digital art is replacing work by the artist hands. The brush seems to be a lost art in many new works.

What advice could you give to those embarking upon a career as an artist?

My advise to new artists is to create what you love to do and do not create what you think others will like.

Is there anything about being an artist that you do not like?

Being an artist is a very hard life. In many cases when you show one of your favorite pieces to the public and there is no reaction, that is the time rejection becomes your companion. it is then I say is it all worth it.

Would you sell your most favourite artwork, or keep it?

When I sell any of my work it is like sending a loved child into the vast open world never to see again. I love all my creations with a deep feeling from the moment it was created, and with great affection while they are with me.

How important was education and training to you?

My training in this field of art was self taught. From my empirical wisdom of all great artists, my subconscious controls my thoughts and feelings to create.

Is there anything in your art career that you would have changed?

My career as an artist started in my later years, if I only began much younger, I started my work when i was 70 years old.

If you were invited overseas to exhibit your works, where would you like that to be?

If I worked overseas, I would hope France would appreciate me.

Are you looking forward to entering the contest for next year?

I will certainly enter forthcoming shows.

Do you recommend use of the Internet for an artist's publicity?

The internet will possibly attract collectors. I do not believe the internet is a good medium for the public to purchase art. Works should be seen by the naked eye to be appreciated.