Ann Ranlett – Artist Spotlight

Please introduce yourself and briefly describe your art.
Hi, I’m Ann Ranlett. I create highly detailed drawings in scratchboard. I explain the scratchboard technique as “drawing white with a knife”. I use a commercially prepared board (Ampersand brand) that has a sturdy archival base, a white clay layer and a black top layer. I scratch through the black with an X-acto knife to reveal the white, using a variety of stroke widths and lengths to create textures and values. After I complete the scratching, I can add color or shades of grey with watercolor and/or ink.

What led you to be an artist and to share your art in Auburn Old Town Gallery?
I’ve always enjoyed being creative and my parents fostered my interest in art. I’ve been drawing since I could hold a crayon, and art has always been a part of my life in some way. As for joining the Gallery, I’ve been a member so many years now, I don’t really remember specifics, but I was looking for a way to get my art out into the public and I liked what I saw when I first walked in the Gallery doors! One of our founding members (Doreen Kidd) and I crossed paths a few times and she always encouraged me to join.

Where are you originally from?
Texas. My dad was in the Air Force, so we moved often. We settled in the Sacramento area when he retired.

What did you want to be when you were younger?
A veterinarian, with occasional thoughts about being an engineer. I realized that although my parents would have supported me through vet school, that was going to be a LOT of school, so I decided to dial it back a bit and get a BS in Biology.

Tell us about a compliment that you’ve received that you’re most proud of.
Honestly, as an artist, any time my work is recognized by my peers is a great compliment. Whether it’s an award, or even just acceptance into a competitive show.

What’s one thing that has made you smile recently?
As I was answering these interview questions, I heard Sandhill Cranes calling for the first time this season, as they flew over our house. It’s such a wonderful, ancient sound!

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Read Ann’s previous interview here.
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