Please introduce yourself and your art medium.
Hello, I am Barbie Smith and I am an oil painter.
What is the most challenging aspect of being an artist?
For me, the most challenging parts of being an artist are the discipline of setting aside time each day for painting and staying true to my own vision and expressing that vision in my work without feeling the pressure to meet anyone else’s expectations.
What do you hope viewers take away from your artwork?
I hope that viewers will find beauty, peace and joy through my work and that it will provide the opportunity to slow down and reflect in the midst of their busy day.
Are you an early bird or a night owl?
I am an early bird, but not too early!
What role does experimentation play in your creative process?
Experimentation is an important part of my process. I am always wanting to learn, grow and discover new ways of working and I rarely do things the same way for very long! This can work against me because routines can help with the painting process and constantly experimenting does not allow for the flow that happens with established routines.
If you could take a week off from your regular life to immerse yourself in learning something new, what would it be?
I would probably just clean out my studio and get rid of anything that I feel is holding me back. I would stock up on all of my supplies and be ready for fresh new work to begin!
___________
Read Barbie’s previous interview here.
___________
