Sonja Hamilton – Artist Spotlight

Tell us about your artwork.
Hello, I’m Sonja Hamilton. My passion is watercolor. Although I have a degree in Art and Education and I am able to teach all levels, my focus is on adults. I do demonstrations in each class and try to finish everything I start; therefore, I paint A LOT. Watercolor had been a challenge in the beginning; now it is just plain fun, but I give myself challenges as well. I like my work to look “painterly” yet realistic. And something people can relate to. I also do find the time to paint for myself, mostly being inspired by nature.

Describe how art is important to society.
Art is an escape, whether for the artist or the viewer. I have sold paintings to people who need to flee from personal grief, for those who need help to heal themselves, and those who want to remember places they’ve visited and loved. Sometimes it is just a little insect or a flower that gives them peace. Everyone needs their own solitude. Art is one way to find this.

How would you describe yourself as an artist?
After painting for decades, I would say that I am “getting the hang of watercolor”. At least, that’s what one of my friends told me once. I think she was right on! I am also disciplined, organized, and somewhat entertaining when doing demos. It is lovely to see peoples’ faces as they watch me paint on a white sheet of paper and finish with something “magical”.

Has your style changed over time?
Of course! When learning, and not knowing that much about the medium and process, you depend on others to lead you to try their style. I have taken workshops from wonderful artists. Early on, I would watch carefully how and what they’d mix to get to their result. Then I watched the application process – each artist is different. Lastly, I took workshops not to see what they did but how the teaching process worked for them. When I adapted what works for me and by painting and teaching more and more, I expanded on my technique, color choices and teaching methods. Now I can say that my success rate with students is quite high. They watch, learn, listen, develop. Several are now teachers themselves. It’s wonderful to see how the circle of learning works! This is personally satisfying.

Describe your dream project.
I don’t particularly have a dream project. I just want to keep painting and finishing everything I begin. There comes my satisfaction. Sometimes it’s my “Wow” factor!

What superpower would you have and why?
I would make time elastic because the days are too short to accomplish all I want/need to accomplish. There’s so much to do in life!
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Read Sonja’s previous interview here.
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