painting
e:
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w: http://kimblairartist.blogspot.com
p: 780.474.6734
Why and or how did you get into the industry?
I developed a repetitive strain injury from my massage practice that led me to think about changing careers. I had devoted Sundays and Mondays to painting for about two years and this dedication led to improved skills and some sales of my art.
I took a weeklong trip to New York City in the fall of 2008, soaking up as much of the fabulous art, culture, and architecture as I could. The trip was the catalyst that helped me make the decision to close my massage business of thirteen years, heal my repetitive strain injury, and pursue my art on a full-time basis. By early December 2008 I had my art blog up and running.
Did anyone inspire you or do you have a mentor?
My inspiration for painting is derived from the gorgeous colours and interesting textures found in nature. Painting vibrant textured florals interests me the most and I would say is greatly influenced by my love of the works of Van Gogh and Monet.
One of my goals is to travel to Giverny, France to paint in Monet’s garden and travel to Provence to paint in the surroundings that inspired Van Gogh.
The library has hundreds of art books and DVDs, which I borrow regularly. Sometimes I borrow a particularly interesting book more than once, usually finding other missed inspirational tidbits of information.
How long have you been doing this?
I have painted off and on since I was about eight or nine but did not take formal art classes until my twenties when I dabbled in a variety of mediums and techniques. About eleven years ago I felt the desire to explore painting more seriously.
What makes you stand out from the rest?
I create a painting every day and post small affordable paintings on my blog five days a week, which have sold across Canada. The smaller format and reasonable price point are strong selling features of my daily blog. The response to the blog has been amazing! Original art at affordable prices. Some collectors have requested larger pieces so I have posted other sizes as time permits. People can subscribe to my blog (I do not share or sell my subscriber list) to receive a new painting in their inbox each day that I post. Included with the posted painting is a commentary about the piece. Numerous subscribers have mentioned they enjoy receiving my art on a regular basis and how much they look forward to reading the accompanying write-ups.
What have been your challenges, if any?
Not every creation is a ‘keeper.’ There are days when I wipe off the canvas and repaint the piece. Practice, practice, practice is my motto; through mistakes we make interesting discoveries. Some would consider completing one painting a day a challenge, but I find it allows me to progress much faster as an artist.
What do you feel is your specialty, if you have one?
Collectors tell me that they are drawn to my floral paintings for a variety of reasons: unique compositions, vibrant rich hues, and the expressive texture of the brush strokes are some observations people have shared with me. Flowers are one of my favourite subjects. This choice stems from the two decades spent in the floral industry and gardening on a regular basis, which provided me with the opportunity to observe, appreciate, and handle flowers on a level not experienced by many artists.
What is new or cutting edge in your opinion?
Computer ‘web’ technology is an amazing venue to get one’s art out into the world. Blog sites are tools that artists can utilize to showcase their unique work, adding colour and joy to the world. They also create online sales, giving artists a more regular source of income.
Anything else you would like to share?
It is satisfying to know that daily painting and blogging is bringing joy to not only myself, but also others. The relationship between art and the viewer is an important personal experience. Perhaps the creation and enjoyment of art on a regular basis can benefit our minds and bodies leading to a greater overall sense of well-being.