Earlier this year, I was invited to be a member of an artists’ guild. The oldest one, in fact, in the town I live in. They’ve been around since the 1940s. It is an honor, indeed!

So the other day I was interviewed regarding the topic of art. I don’t remember being interviewed ever before so it I had to pause and think about what I was going to say. It’s a short one. I hope you enjoy and learn something from it.

Describe the best reaction someone ever had to your work. Why did it hit home for you? How did it relate to your unique mission as a creative?

The best reaction someone ever had to my work is not so much a reaction as it is a remark. Most people would point out the same thing – that my photos have the sensibility of paintings. It hit home because it’s truly what I’ve always attempted to achieve. Unconsciously, anyway. And it totally relates to my creative mission. Being a frustrated painter, I instinctively create art by envisioning my photos as hand-crafted pieces of work as opposed to simply snapshots of what’s already been in existence. I love the imperfections and the drama that paintings convey. That human element, you know? I want that in my photography.

What first steps would you recommend folks do to begin making art themselves?

What I would say to those who would want to make art is this: Find your true passion, first and foremost. Art should come from the heart. Then create out of that passion! Create and do not stop! Find avenues. Find inspiration. Find an excuse! Just create and do not stop! Soon you will find yourself. And that is a happy place to be.

What do you do for a living in the “real world.” How has it informed your art practice?

In the real world, I am a graphic designer and a multimedia specialist. I create print materials such as brochures, flyers, posters and all kinds of ads. I also do videography, audio engineering, web design & maintenance and of course, photography. I am blessed that my job allows me to be creative. Besides work, I also create music. I used to be a professional musician before moving to Wyoming. Music is my first love! I write songs and produce my own music. So yes, it seems like in anything and everything I do, art dictates how I do it. Now, that’s life!

What’s an example of a little thing in your life that brings you peace?

God.