When I introduced
Bethany Ogle's art yesterday, I focused on the greens. But truth be told, she works with a full spectrum of color and that is one of the many reasons why I am so drawn to her work. Bethany maintains a unique organic sensibility that leaves you craving the chirps of crickets or birds, the tickling sensation of a breeze against your skin, and the sparkle of stars pressed into the thick, inky night sky. Just putting this post together has me itching for a hike. But even if you cannot get outdoors today, I hope you'll feel rejuvenated through more of
Bethany's art and a quick interview.
1) How did art become such a significant part of your life?
As a child I started getting sketch books, pencils and paints for my birthday and those types of presents never ceased. I guess my family saw something I was too young to see. I went on to art school in Chicago filled with dreams of being in the Louvre.
Then adulthood snuck up on me, and practicalities made me give up on the whole idea of being an artist. After art school I went to university for a degree that prepared me to work in a cubicle. The cube scene didn't last long. Soon I was making time to do commissioned drawings on the side. I realized my passion for the arts wasn't going to go away. Now I'm an artist full time and it's full speed ahead.
2) Where do you go or what do you do when you need to recharge your creative spirit?
Charging off like an explorer into one of the wonderful state parks here in Iowa always puts me straight. But during the winter when the snow is up to my knees it's hard to recharge. I love the freedom to roam outside in Spring, Summer and Fall, so it's tough being forced to live like a hermit these days.
At the suggestion of my sister, I am attempting to force some bulbs indoors. I feel like Mendel.
3) How do you maintain a balance between your artwork and other obligations?
Timers! I go into a sort of daydream when I'm working and this resulted in all sorts of appointments, obligations, and meals being missed. So now my more lucid self sets alarm reminders in Outlook before I go into a painting session. And everyone in my family is much happier.
4) How do you see the art world changing or evolving?
With online venues like Etsy, a greater variety of artists have the opportunity to show their art to the world. There are so many blended styles we are exposed to now. I see new micro genres evolving everywhere!
5) Who are some other artists, musicians or authors that you find to be particularly influential?
I am mainly influenced by interior designers. My favorite being David Bromstad from HGTV's Color Splash.
6) What are some of your hopes or goals for the future?
First: To expand out of my corner-of-the-room studio into a larger room-of-my-own space that's part art space and part greenhouse for all those bulbs I'm growing.
Second: It will then be feasible to work with larger canvases. Right now I create smaller pieces for home decor, but would love to do large focal pieces.
Thank you very much, Bethany! I would absolutely love to see a larger focal piece from Bethany, wouldn't you? Be sure to stop by
Bethany's Etsy shop, and while you're there take note of her triptych panels. They're such a treat!