Please introduce yourself and briefly describe your art.
Jenn Norpchen, gourd creations.

What led you to be an artist and to share your art in Auburn Old Town Gallery?
I moved from the Bay Area not sure if I was headed to Washington state or stay here. My friend suggested staying here for a while. I did. I volunteered at the Discovery shop and started to dabble in gourds. The Art and Chocolate Tour in Granite Bay was open for a weekend, and I decided to go. I met LoreLee Love on the tour and realized there was an art community here and suggested I check out Auburn Old Town Gallery.

Where are you originally from?
Danville, CA

What did you want to be when you were younger?
Architect-Designer.

Tell us about a compliment that you’ve received that you’re most proud of.
I’ve received a lot of compliments on my artwork and creativity. Makes me smile and want to create more.

What’s one thing that has made you smile recently?
Some very nice comments about my trip to Africa.

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Read Jenn’s previous interview here.

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Please introduce yourself and briefly describe your art.
Hi, I am Sandy Delehanty and I am a watercolor painter.

What led you to be an artist and to share your art in Auburn Old Town Gallery?
I have been an artist since childhood, the need to create is in my DNA. I got my degree in art from California State University at Chico and after working in business for several years and painting at night and on weekends, I quit my day job and turned professional as an artist in 1997. I have been showing in galleries since then, but none were near my home. I joined Auburn Old Town Gallery twelve years ago because I wanted to work with other local artists, and I wanted to show my work to my neighbors and friend where I live.

Where are you originally from?
Fort Jones, California

What did you want to be when you were younger?
An Artist.

Tell us about a compliment that you’ve received that you’re most proud of.
In the world of watercolor artists, the most competitive art competition (and one of the oldest in the world) is the American Watercolor Society’s Annual International Juried Show has taken place for 157 years. The show is always displayed in the historic Salmagundi Club on Fifth Avenue in New York City. It is the “Academy Awards” so to speak of Watercolor Painters and is entered by artists from all over the world. As with most serious watercolor artists it has always been my goal to have three of my paintings accepted into the required three shows and to be awarded AWS Signature Status. In 2020 my third painting in three years was accepted and I was awarded my AWS Signature Status. It only took me 13 years of trying to get the first one accepted! I guess I am a late bloomer!

What’s one thing that has made you smile recently?
Just to be alive and have the privilege to paint everyday makes me smile. And of course, my funny husband makes me laugh every day too, so I am one lucky lady!

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Read Sandy’s previous interview here.

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Tell us about your artwork.
I’m Jane Markham. My woodworking specialty is creating boxes that highlight the grains & patterns found in our Northern California Claro Walnut & English Walnut. These unique specimens are over 70 years old. As I band saw & plane each piece, the natural beauty becomes apparent. Each part of the box make-up calls for its own artistry as features come out for the legs & fronts and backs. My joy is picking the choicest boards for the dramatic tops.

Describe how art is important to society.
Everyone has artistic qualities. Our natural world is a pallet of possibilities. Art brings us closer to these joys & allows us to explore creations that expand our world.

How would you describe yourself as an artist?
I worked with my late husband for many years as I learned everything I could about our wood shop. When he ascended 15 years ago, I had wonderful tools to work with, a huge canopy of wood, & the inspiration to continue our legacy of bringing beautiful Walnut back to a new life for another 50 years. I have progressed so that I feel confident my work is ever evolving.

Has your style changed over time?
My style has been refining over the years, as I mostly work by myself with occasional help. I can create pieces that come together beautifully–each part complementing the others. My Walnut is a never-ending source of amazement when the grains are exposed. My boxes are smaller now & I highlight remarkable pieces of the wood: ‘Fiddleback’, with its undulating waves, the heartwood of English Walnut, & Black Walnut Burls that show amazing patterns.

What superpower would you have and why?
My many years of teaching have blossomed as I impart growth and positivity to all I encounter. My superpower would be to extend my nurturing hands and self to the larger world, helping others realize their potential and fulfill it to improve their lives.

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Read Jane’s previous interview here.

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Tell us about your artwork.
I’m Jessi Brooks and I am an artist who specializes in metal artwork. My creations are a vibrant celebration of recycled metals, bright colors, and playful themes.

Describe how art is important to society.
Art enhances our surroundings, bringing beauty and inspiration to our lives. It stimulates creativity and innovation, influencing other fields and driving societal advancement. In essence, art is a vital thread that weaves together diverse communities, promotes cultural diversity, and enriches the human experience.

How would you describe yourself as an artist?
One of the most rewarding aspects of my life as an artist is the ability to connect with others through my work. Seeing the emotional impact my art has on people, whether it evokes joy, introspection, or empathy, is incredibly fulfilling. Art has the power to transcend language and cultural barriers, creating a shared experience that unites individuals from all walks of life.

Has your style changed over time?
Over time, my artistic style has evolved as I experimented with different materials. From traditional mediums to mixed media, I incorporated found objects and recycled materials, bringing new energy to my work. The interaction between materials and subject matter became essential, allowing me to convey messages effectively. Embracing unpredictability, I embraced imperfections, growing resilient. This exploration pushed my creative boundaries, leading to exciting discoveries and an ongoing artistic adventure.

Describe your dream project.
My dream project would be a large, interactive sculpture in a vibrant public square. With its colorful design and unexpected surprises, it beckons passersby to engage. People of all ages gather, creating a shared moment of joy and wonder.

What superpower would you have and why?
I would really love to fly~ my why… b:c it’s AMAZING!!!!

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Read Jessi’s previous interview here.

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