I use these interviews to show other artisans, influencers, and people alike what the art world can be like outside of the academic world. I know as a current student that is something which can be terrifying to think of! Rachel Mantel And I are current classmatess at the University of Wyoming. In an interview, I asked Racel about her creative process. You can see more of her work on her website: https://rachelmantelart.weebly.com/.
Q: What do you do? Who are you? (Please describe what kind of work or artwork you do?
A: I'm a mixed media artist that focuses on the present agricultural state of the Mid-West and its effects on culture. I grew up on a cattle farm in a very small community in Wyoming. I have specialized in graphic design, printmaking, and drawing. I blend these "trades" as needed for a deep, conceptual, finished artwork.
Q: What is your most important artist tool?
A: My favorite tool that I've ever owned is this tiny paintbrush I bought two years ago. I use it on everything. The most important tool that I use though is my sketchbook. I need clear goals when I start new projects.
[ Above Poverty, Printmaking 2]
Q: What inspires you the most?
A: What inspires me the most are experiences. Each of my artworks relates to a time period in my life. I've experienced poverty, depression, anxiety, and isolation specifically. As a result, the majority of my pieces are conceptually related to past emotions or have therapeutic imagery. Q: What are the first three things you do when you start a new project? A: I think of a word or three I would like to discuss. Then, I create an idea map. Using the common ideas and related imagery, I start sketching possible compositions, color palettes, and materials. Having a thorough plan before working is what works for me. When I go headfirst, I find that the finished result is rushed, overly emotional, and messy.
[Left: Culture, Printmaking 2;
Below: 180 Minutes, Life Drawing 2]
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