A Conversation with Artist Stephanie Clair

Artist Stephanie Clair

I recently had a chance to ask Stephanie some questions so that we could get some insight into her as an artist, her artwork, and her perspectives on a few things we thought might interest you.  What came through was Stephanie’s warm and caring spirit, and her passion for capturing the joyful times in life. 

I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

 When did you first realize that you had a talent for art?  

When I won an award in second grade for the best outer space creature. I won a strawberry milkshake from McDonalds. Actually when I was in high school- my art teachers all told me I would be a well-known artist some day.

What is your favorite medium and why? 

Oils. They are bright exotic workable- they allow me to capture the true colors and depth I am trying to create.

 How did you decide on and develop your artistic style?

 I always liked art that makes you think…drawing your eye in to many layers and depth and color.  Cubism allowed me to do that; to capture something with light, and shading, hard and angular like stained glass. But I love soft, dreamy, colorful positive elements for the subject matter.  I guess you can say I’m a romantic at heart.

How do you choose your subjects? 

I try to send a message in each painting.  Happy positive moments in life we tend to forget about so fast…instead we live in a world of stress, work, materialism, negative stuff -those things seem to take precedence.  I try to capture a snapshot of those wonderful moments that make life worthwhile so we may be reminded every time we look at the painting what life is really all about.
 

What is it about you that makes you a good artist? 

In some small way…if I can help inspire people through my paintings to live a more positive happy life then I have done my job as an artist.
 

What are you currently working on, and do you have plans for a new series? 

Currently I am working on a new line of work, totally different from my usual style.  It will be paintings on concrete board, almost a sculptural painting with colorful acid based stains, and heavy texture and resins.  They will have a very abstract- nature look. It’s a new thing for me and I’m excited to explore this other world.
 

As an artist, what type of art do you appreciate? 

I appreciate art that makes you think.  Art that strikes down to the core on some level, hitting a positive nerve that gets you inspired…makes you want to take action. I appreciate artists that do their own thing, creating something beautiful that resonates with me how amazing this world is we live in.
 

Many people are concerned about spending money on art given the state of our economy.  What would you tell them? 

Art isn’t looked at as a “necessity” therefore people hold on to their money for more important things, like clothes, dinner, furniture.  Do you still have those “things” 10 years later? Have those “things” inspired you on a personal level? Art you typically have for life. It is a part of you. It helps define who you are. Therefore it’s the best investment you can honestly make. 
 

What would you tell artists that believe fine art should only be sold from galleries? 

Art is sold through the art and artists itself.  Artists  are the ones who can really truly explain their feelings, what they are trying to convey, but if a good gallery can convey this to the collector…bravo. But you shouldn’t be limited to only one avenue. Galleries are very important in helping an artist gain important stature and exposure. But as long as the person selling the artists work is a professional in the art world, knows the artist inside and out and can convey the artists work and passion, then it doesn’t matter who is selling the work.

Why did you decide to work with TheArtGallerist.com?  

Because I want to broaden my reach to a bigger arena. I would like to reach people that may not find me just through my galleries – people that may be first time collectors who I can inspire to take a chance on buying art through the Internet vs a gallery. Brian truly has his heart in the business and loves his artists and art as much as the artists themselves.  This is a rare find and this is what it’s all about. Connecting with like minded people. And I hope through this article I am able to connect with you. So go ahead, make your first art purchase through www.TheArtGallerist.com.  It will be the best thing you’ve ever done!

Thanks Stephanie!