Finding time in her busy schedule, our cover artist this week gave us some insight into her art.
What is your favorite medium?
Most of my work is sharpie or le pen on cardboard, wood, or paper. In the past I worked mostly with acrylic. I just completed a three piece series with Leo Shallot where we used watered down acrylic and sharpie.
What inspires your art?
I am really inspired by repeating patterns and how simplicity can create chaos. My art ends up being the manifestation of these intricate line patterns in my mind. Some of the formations are abstract and others are concrete shapes that are recognizable. There are leaves and flowers present, so maybe subconsciously nature is my inspiration.
How did you develop your style?
Whatever I am presently working on is a reflection of what I am going through in my life. It’s a way for me to work through and beyond things, but also seek clarity. It’s my meditation, because it takes a lot of concentration.
If you were a concept, what would you be?
Everything is ephemeral.
What kind of messages do you try to convey through your art?
I once was asked to put up a show and realized after I committed to doing so, that I would have to create several pieces. For me, I have a different mentality and intention when I create art solely to sell it. This feels less genuine. I really try to be honest in what I create. I work in the mindset that what I create is a reflection of me and I really want that to translate. It took me awhile to show people what I was creating, but they were all so positive that I realized I have something and I enjoy sharing it with others when I can.
At the arts and crafts fair last spring, someone came up to my booth and excitedly told me that I had the exact same artistic style as the “towel girl” from the rec center. I happen to be that “towel girl”. I guess I should thank my job at the gym for a substantial amount of my work was made there.
Where do you hope to go with your art?
I hope that I always find inspiration to create art and know that I would love to collaborate with more people and further develop my style. I hope to do murals and bigger projects in the future when I have more time. For now I am enjoying the handful of small projects I am working on.
For more information about me or if you are interested in collaborating, contact me at missoliviarae[at]gmail.com
By Kelli Tokos
