Obsession and Passion
These are the words that are my life as an artist. Observing even the smallest or simplest objects in daily life inspire the creative in me. I find myself utilizing them in abstract ways to form my own artistic expressions.
My creative life began early. I first started rearranging my parents’ home as a teenager. This began the interiors side of my life. I studied art and interior design in college. However, my parents encouraged me to expand my studies beyond art. My major was teaching.
I have always loved art museums and spend as much time as possible visiting them everywhere I go. Spending time with so many works of art, continues to teach me how even the great masters, as well as modern artists influence every aspect of life. The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Museum of Modern Art in New York City seem to be my core of inspiration. I look at the works on display, both permanent and visiting art, and find new visuals that were not evident earlier. I never tire of spending days immersing myself in these great works.
Pollack, Picasso, and Klimt have been strong influences as their individual breakthroughs all express unique applications of paint which have created new meccas that advanced my abstract side and taught me to push myself forward.
Locally, Ida Kohlmeyer and Zella Funk have always stood out and are among my favorites. Ida Kohlmeyer’s independent spirit in both her sculpture and her art is inspirational. Zella Funk is most unique in her life and in her work. She promotes many artists and generously encourages women in the arts; she always lived her life her own way – independently. In a time when surviving in the art world was a struggle, she not only survived but flourished and thereby influenced us all. They both allow their work to speak out --- their imaginations are forthright.
I love color! It controls emotions, and influences personalities. Applying subtle or bold color in artwork brings it to life and gives the work voice.
I am a voracious reader. As time allows, I am constantly reading about art, artists, materials, techniques, the old and the new.
I would prefer to have one unique and original piece of art in a room, even if I had to forgo furniture and sit on the floor to enjoy it’s stimulation. My feelings, my motivations, and my commitment to my Obsession and my Passion would never be possible without the support of my family. They constantly nurture and support my work. I am fortunate and thankful that I am surrounded by a family I both love and admire … they are also phenomenal inspirations in my life. -DLK