Issue 1 Artist Spotlight | Jessica Fraser
C+B: Tell us about yourself, Jessica!
JF: Hi! I am Jessica Fraser, painter and creator of Baby Jess Art. Currently, I am also a manager at a French Bistro but striving to do art full time by the end of the year. One of my favorite things to do in my spare time is cooking. I love reading cookbooks and food based magazines to get inspiration and create fun new meals! I am a terrible baker. I also love to read, travel, listen to music, go the Denver Botanical Gardens, watch movies and hang out with my family and friends. I am very inspired by the sky, particularly at sunset or late night, the moon, nature, vibrant colors and light. Something people may not know about me is sometimes I cry when I paint.
C+B: What is one quote that inspires you or informs your work?
JF: "For my part I know nothing with any certainty but the sight of the stars makes me dream." This is a quote from Vincent Van Gogh and his words I relate to immensely. I too can feel uncertain about life and what it all means but the sky and stars give me a sense of something bigger than me and they truly make me dream. I strive to capture this in my work and it gives me great comfort to recreate and hold on to this feeling during my artistic process and in the final piece. I have always admired Van Gogh, especially his writings. I read a book with his letters to his brother when I was younger and his words have stuck with me. I admired that he always kept painting, even though he did not sell much and the way he captured the world in his work with his dreamy and expressive strokes.
C+B: What other creative outlets do you enjoy or want to try?
JF: A creative outlet I want to try and currently looking into is some sort of sculpture. I am interested in learning clay and experimenting with making hanging/mobile type pieces.
Saw-Whet and The Desert Moon, 8” x 8,” acrylic on canvas
(Original artwork ©Jessica Fraser - Baby Jess Art)
Ideal creative retreat: My ideal creative retreat would be in some place immersed in nature and away from many people. A place where there are very dark skies to truly see the stars. I would love to spend more time in the desert such as in New Mexico or go across the world and explore the country sides of Japan. Where ever the retreat is located, I would love to learn the history, the art, and the techniques that originated from those parts of the world.
Currently inspired by: Annie Stegg Gerard @anniestegg, Ekaterina Popova @katerinaspopova, Vanessa Stockard @vanessastockard, Alexis Savopoulos @meadowandfawn, Ashley Longshore @ashleylongshoreart
Jessica Fraser of Baby Jess Art
Issue 1 Artist Spotlight | Karen Rohlin
C+B: Tell us about yourself, Karen!
KR: I am a Graphic Artist who has also taught art in a K-8 Charter school. This past year has actually afforded me time to really paint, create and grow my watercolor practice. I love that I can see the growth and also that I am looking for new ways to use the paints. In my spare time I enjoy gardening and hiking. In my yard I intentionally create spaces and gardens that I can photograph and paint. Being in nature is what consistently inspires me. I want to paint it and share that with everyone!
C+B: What are your long-term goals for creating?
KR: My long term goals are to create larger paintings in watercolor and to have my own show.
C+B: What is something exciting that you’re looking forward to?
KR: I am looking forward to even more exploration in watercolors on the larger scale. It is calling me. I am working on plans for a studio and I am so excited about that!
C+B: What other creative outlets do you enjoy or want to try?
KR: I am also getting back to sewing and pattern making, I am going to pursue ceramics too.
Ideal creative retreat: My ideal creative retreat would be in a nature where you can create inside and outside. It would have a plethora of different art mediums and creatives who are able to teach and guide us. Also included would be hikes, yoga and really good food. Maybe even a food creativity component.
Currently inspired by: Ekaterina Popova. A'driene Nieves, Tawny Chatmon, Katie Whipple, Georgia O'Keefe, Henri Magritte, Agnes Martin, MC Esher.
Bee and Hollyhock, 5” x 8,” watercolor
Original artwork ©Karen Rohlin
Karen Rohlin
Find and support Karen here:
Issue 1 Artist Spotlight | Rawan Ita-Diaz
C+B: Tell us about yourself, Rawan!
RID: I am a Chaldean artist based in Detroit, MI but I was born in Iraq. My family and I were fortunate enough to come to The United Sates as refugees. We fled when I was just a toddler and went from country to country until we were granted asylum and settled in the Metro Detroit area.
Living from one new place to the next has sparked this desire I have to travel across the world. Traveling refreshes me. Seeing new sights, walking across various lands, and experiencing different cultures inspires me as an artist and as a human. When I need to refocus and find my creativity, I know it’s time to explore. Sometimes, that may mean going out into nature and painting en plein air or simply walking along a beautiful path surrounded by animals. Those walks are precious to me in many ways.
In 2017, I was in a horrific accident that changed my life. The simple things in life, like walking, became extremely painful and difficult for me to do. I walked with a limp for years, relied on walking sticks, and use a wheelchair from time to time. I felt weak and humiliated. Most of all, I missed that time I had to myself during my daily walks. Now, I appreciate my legs more than ever for taking me as far as they can. With each trek, I think back on each day of progress I’ve made since. Walking is not only a milestone for me physically, but it’s my mind’s way of thinking through the madness. When I become unproductive and tense, I know it’s time to prepare my legs and my mind for those strides.
I wear many hats as an artist, architectural designer, and co-founder of a nonprofit called The Art Spread. My creative energy can be used up quickly. When it’s time to step away from the canvas and computer, I explore the world – any little part of it - so that I can come back to my role as painter and creative director with a fresh mindset.
C+B: What are your long-term goals for creating?
RID: My long-term goals for creating are to stay true to my origin, the reason I began painting in the first place. I want to use my artwork to continue raising awareness and insight into a messy mind such as mine. The more I share about my physical and mental challenges, the more I’ve been able to connect with people. It’s a goal I never thought I’d have but it’s turning out to be an incredible experience.
C+B: Tell us something exciting about your life or creative life!
RID: In Spring of 2021, my business partner and I publicly launched our nonprofit! The Art Spread (@the.art.spread) is an organization that supports artists with mental, physical, and societal challenges. We feature artists who are ready to share their story to help spread awareness. The message of inclusion brought so many opportunities for us to connect with people. During our free monthly events, we invite professional, artists, and people who experience life in diverse ways to speak. The Art Spread’s growth has already exceeded my expectations! Artists that I’ve fan-girled over for years have given their time to speak at our events and show support! Our next goal is to host two exhibitions per year called Summer Spread and Winter Spread. During the exhibitions, our Featured Artists can showcase and sell their work and network with a large audience. We also plan to curate Empathic Exhibitions. This would include a variety of installations and displays that cater to people with diverse abilities so that a more inclusive art experience can be shared. We’ve just begun our adventure and I am so excited for what’s to come!
Bloom, 9” x 12,” alcohol ink
(Original artwork ©Rawan Ita-Diaz)
Ideal creative retreat: My ideal creative retreat is simple. A space in nature, maybe a balcony or patio that is surrounded by lush landscape and vibrant flowers hanging overhead. Ideally, I could wake up from a place of rest nearby, grab a cup of tea and walk into the sunlit area with a watercolor palette and velvety cotton paper waiting for me to play with.
Currently inspired by: My favorite emerging artists include women like Gray (@grxylxw), Minju (@sincerelyminju), and Maryam (@medadi). They are artists associated with The Art Spread (@the.art.spread) who boldly express their passion and message through art. Gray’s work is exciting and vibrant at first glance. When you look deeper into the layers, you uncover an intense level of vulnerability that exudes out of her pieces. Minju’s paintings are delicate and sophisticated. Her abstract pieces are filled with soft movement and light that lead your eyes to rest and engage in specific moments. Maryam makes collages that are fun, feminine, and layered with flowers. They speak to the me as a woman and celebrate natural beauty.
Experienced artists, Kat Popova (@katerinaspopova) and Emma Lindstrom (@lindstrom.emma) have inspired me since the beginning of my art journey! Kat’s many creative endeavors encourage me to follow my various passions and not limit myself as an artist. Emma is the first artist I came across that encouraged me to create fluid artwork. I struggled with fine motor skills like using a paint brush so, I thought that meant I couldn’t paint. When I saw Emma splash buckets of paint around, I realized that I should explore the pouring technique. It changed my life and allowed me to create art without boundaries!
Issue 1 Artist Spotlight | Cindy Ruskin
C+B: Tell us about yourself, Cindy!
CR: I failed handwriting in elementary school because I pressed so hard that I made holes in the paper. And I couldn't draw no matter how hard I tried. As a young teen, I was sent to a special after-school program for people with clinical motor skill disorder (dyspraxia). Part of my creativity comes from having to find ways around my profound lack of coordination and rhythm. Mostly, I read a lot growing up. Animation was my first true love and making hand-drawn animated films forced me to draw. The first time I saw my quirky little character come alive and skateboard across the screen, I was smitten. I still love hand-drawn animation but now work primarily in oils and mixed-media. I think of myself as an activist and an artist, though those two parts of my life are often separate. My activism has led to many life-changing experiences that have affected me deeply. When I was in college, I co-founded the Harvard-Radcliffe Southern Africa Solidarity Committee that spearheaded the anti-apartheid divestiture movement on college campuses. While living in San Francisco, I wrote the first book about the AIDS Quilt, "The Quilt: Stories from the Names Project," which was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize. I also co-wrote the Academy-Award-winning HBO documentary, COMMON THREADS: Stories from the Quilt. When I moved to New York City I worked on several art projects with the low-income children in my neighborhood, including 20 years as a teaching artist at Avenues for Justice, an alternative to prison program for teenagers who have committed crimes. It's been difficult for me to reconcile these two parts of my life. Because of Covid, I unexpectedly found myself isolated and no longer able to participate in community activities. So I focused on painting exclusively, more than any other time in my life. My work has benefited from this time of total immersion and reflection. Every day, I wake up excited to create and to explore new worlds through my art.
C+B: What is one quote that inspires you and informs your work?
CR: "And to the Forest I go to lose my mind and find my Soul."
-- naturalist John Muir
When I paint, time stops and for hours I'm able hold onto that moment between the past and the future. I find stillness and peace in this prolonged present. By surrendering to the mystery of not knowing what's coming next and by letting go of the limitations of my body and the real world, I can go anywhere.
Its Right of Dew, 4x4, oil
Original artwork ©Cindy Ruskin
Cindy Ruskin
Ideal creative retreat: Pre-Covid, I dreamed about a remote retreat in the Swiss Alps or on a faraway Island. But now after 18 months of isolation, I fantasize about a fellowship at a university -- a place where there's lots of conversation about books, the arts, history and philosophy with scholars and artists from around the world. I'd use the stimulus to take my art in new, unexpected directions.
Currently inspired by: Ebony Patterson #ebonypatterson, Cecily Brown, Kerry James Walker, Kara Walker, Hiba Schahbaz @hiba_schahbaz , Amy Cutler @cutler_amy,
Hernan Bas @hernanbas, Titus Kaphar,
Genieve Figgis #genevievefiggis,
Sanya Kantarovsky #sanyakantarovsky,
Karin Miller @karin.miller.visualart
Valery Hegarty #valeryhegarty,
Tara Donovan, JeeYoung Lee,
Caroline Leaf's animation,
Kendal Murray , Lubaina Himid,
Marcel Dzama, Paula Rego @paularegostudio,
Beth Katleman @bethkatleman,
Jenny Brown @jennybrownart
Allison E. Moyers @thepoetpaints
Heather Martindale @hmartindale_art
Asma Kazi @a5mak,
Joyce Seymore
I've listed living artists only but I have to mention my favorites Florine Stettheimer and Charlotte Solomon.
Issue 1 Writer Spotlight | S Stephanie
C+B: Tell us about yourself!
SS: I am an adjunct instructor of creative writing, composition and literature. I also work at a local hardware store. In my time off I read, write, walk, and think. My cats join me for most of these activities, and they give me lots of advice.
C+B: What is something exciting that you’re looking forward to?
SS: I love to go on "art dates". Take myself to museums, theaters, etc that inspire me. I have a trip to London planned for next year! The Globe and many other inspiring places will so inspire me!
C+B: What is one quote that inspires you or informs your work?
SS: "The world is everything that is the case." and all that follows that first line in the Tractatus by Wittgenstein. When I write, I feel I am writing with that book at my back. I love participating in his ideas of Sense and Nonsense. I have come to believe that creative writing is really "showing" what it is to be human, painting our experience of being human with language.
S Stephanie
Ideal creative retreat: I like silence. Anywhere that is silent is a retreat for me.
Currently inspired by: I love Patti Smith. I also think highly of Jericho Brown. One of my favorite poets is Carlos Drummond de Andrade (Brazil). I rarely do Instagram.
Find and support S Stephanie here:
Web: sstephanie.com
Issue 1 Artist Spotlight | Tina Rawson
C+B: Tell us about yourself, Tina!
TR: I love to make art. I love to teach. I am a traveler, I enjoy speaking Swedish and following my families adventures abroad. I know (almost) everything about Vikings and I am inspired by beautiful colors, nature, my mother's weaving, and special places that move my memories.
C+B: What are your long-term goals for creating?
TR: To create a body of work that is meaningful to myself and others. To connect with people through my art, and to tap into my inner creative child as well as help others to do so.
C+B: What is something exciting that you’re looking forward to in your creative life?
TR: I would like to create an artist retreat for emerging artists, like me!
Tina Rawson
Nubble Lighthouse, 10" x 8," acrylic on crackle substrate
(Original artwork ©Tina Rawson)
Ideal creative retreat: Mexico, margaritas, interesting chats with other artists, time to explore and learn new skills
Currently inspired by: Kezz Brett , Jess Franks , Rebecca Klementovich and many many others!
Issue 1 Artist Spotlight | Jessica Ashburn
C+B: Tell us about yourself, Jess!
JA: During the day I am a Senior Art Director working on national pet food brands aka I get to stare at cute dogs and cats all day! I mostly spend my nights and some of my weekends painting, probably starting one too many paintings at a time actually since my brain seems to work best when I can switch between multiple ideas.
C+B: What is one quote that inspires you or informs your work?
JA: I love Rupi Kaur and I saw this quote the other day that really resonated with me. “ It’s not about how many people like your work/your art is about if your heart likes your work/if your soul likes your work/it’s about how honest you are with yourself/and you must never trade honesty for relatability.” I think we’re all guilty of this at times but I definitely fall into the trap of thinking the world could do without my art and be totally fine before I remember that I couldn’t do without my art and be totally fine.
C+B: What are your long-term goals for creating?
JA: I want to be able to create more. Each month, each year, more. Life in general is hectic and stressful and everyone has their “stuff,” I know I do. So I’ve been trying not to put so much pressure on myself with specific numbers or unrealistic expectations. My goal is just more, and whatever more that feel right for me this week and next. I do have a long term goal of painting full time and a short term goal of getting my shop finished for print sales!
Soak, 11” x 16,” oil
Original artwork ©Jessica Ashburn
Ideal creative retreat: A cabin in the woods with an entirely glass wall facing a lake or river.
Currently inspired by: @Agnesgrochulska, @chloemceldowney, @Katie.Richards, @daniellecoenen, @bakpakdurden, @adriennemeschelle, @Amber.cowan, @jessfranksart & @joeyunlee
Issue 1 Artist Spotlight | Cameron White
C+B: Tell us about yourself!
CW: When having time away from painting in the studio, I very much enjoy walking with my family and little dog. Over the past year or so and during lock down in the UK, we have really been able to get to know our local area well. Living in the north of the UK, I'm constantly impressed by the landscape as there are hills and mountains nearby; however, I'm constantly drawn to places where I can see an expanse of horizon. I love watching 80's films and listening to 80's music too.
C+B: What is one quote that inspires you or informs your work and why?
CW: "Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up." A quote by Pablo Picasso. So true; we need to continue to tap into that place within ourselves where we are still childlike in our excitement and joy for everything. Picasso was one of the first artists I learnt about in school and I still love seeing how he used colour, shape and form in his work.
C+B: What other creative outlets do you enjoy?
CW: When out and about, I always carry my phone and take numerous photos which I use as inspiration later on. I greatly enjoyed doing a photography A-Level years ago using an old Pentax camera and produced my own negatives and prints. This is something I'd like to try again someday. I'd also love to try ceramics and producing pottery having been greatly inspired by the amazing Grayson Perry on his TV program 'Grayson's Art Club.'
Midsummer Grey, 4.72" x 6.88" (12 cm x 17.5 cm), acrylic and inktense on canvas | Original Artwork ©Cameron White
Ideal creative retreat: A cottage in the middle of the countryside with a great selection of music and food!
Currently inspired by:
Laura Marks; @jlauramarks
Kurt Meer; @kurtmeer
Aiden Milligan; @aiden_milligan
Alys Kuu: @alys_kuu
Ben Walker; @benwalkerpainter
There are many others...
Find and support Cameron here:
Issue 1 Writer Spotlight | Amanda Knight
C+B: Tell us about yourself, Amanda!
AK: My name is Amanda and I'm a Merrimack Valley native. Growing up in this area has provided me with many opportunities both personally and creatively. I feel like I have the best of both worlds as for as location. I'm close enough to a few of my favorite cities which satisfies my curiosity for culture, history and the arts and on the other hand, I'm just as close to the ocean, mountains, and lakes to satisfy my need to connect with the natural world. Currently I'm not a full time creative. I actually just recently reentered the world of finance. I had left after twelve years to pursue other professional opportunities. I've had a variety of different jobs over the years from food service and retail to marketing and photography services. I also enjoy being actively involved in the community in a variety different ways. All of these experiences have had major impacts on who I am as a person and how I approach life and art. In my spare time I enjoy connecting with people at my favorite local coffee shops, hiking, zip lining, kayaking, forest bathing, reading, playing and watching sports, enjoying live music, photography, painting, and modeling. I absolutely love learning and appreciate people who can teach me something new! I love getting up early and watching the sunrise from my favorite spots in Newburyport! There's something so invigorating and at the same time calming about being up that early. It's a great time for me to reflect and be a little introspective as well as an opportunity to write and explore my interest in photography. I haven't always considered myself a creative person. Even though creativity is something we all possess, I never really felt connected to that side of myself. It wasn't until I started modeling nine years ago that I began to recognize that part of me and it just progressed from there as I learned to embrace it. I realized I could help others through my experiences and use creative outlets to do that. Combined with my love of the arts, especially the local art community, it seems like the rest has just flowed organically. Although I don't currently live in Newburyport, it's definitely a place I've felt very connected to in many ways, for the past decade. I'm very grateful for the amazing art community in the city and how it continues to inspire and encourage me in so may ways.
Ideal creative retreat: My ideal creative retreat would definitely take place in nature. Morning nature walks followed by meditative forest bathing would set the tone for the day. Time for reading, writing, painting, and any other creative outlets would be very important as well; opportunities to really reflect and hone in on your craft. Building in time to relax with fellow creatives and enjoy conversations and really connect, taking in all the inspiration and creative energy! Being able to gain that sense of community through activities and experiences is so valuable to me. For me that's where life happens, in those little moments and it's where a lot of my inspiration comes from. Daily tai chi to respect and strengthen the flow of energy throughout the body and connect mentally, emotionally and physically would be incorporated. I think regardless of the actual itinerary, being in nature, showing up authentically and allowing creativity and inspiration to flow organically would be amazing!
Find and support Amanda here:
IG: @a_k_inspired
Amanda Knight
C+B: What are your long-term goals for creating?
AK: Being relatively newer to the creative community, I feel like I have an abundance of long term goals for my journey! As a writer, I have a couple of book concepts in the works and I'm eager to learn everything I can about that process. I'm very passionate about the arts and the local art community here in the Greater Newburyport area and I'm very excited about the prospect of collaborating with a variety of artists for one of these projects! Having my work featured in a local art gallery would be a huge honor and something I'm currently working towards achieving. I do enjoy a variety of creative outlets and I'm excited to keep exploring and experimenting with different mediums along the way. Connecting with other creatives and sharing my passions in such a way that I can positively impact those around me and make a difference in the lives of others is the ultimate long term goal I hope to achieve. Whether that's through writing, modeling, photography, painting or anything else.
C+B: What other creative outlets do you currently enjoy or want to try?
AK: I've recently started experimenting with watercolors in addition to acrylic which has been a fun challenge to day the least. An experience I'm really looking forward to creatively is pottery. I've had an undeniable urge to create with my hands recently. Feeling the clay and having something so tangible and so malleable is very appealing to me. On a deeper level, it's representation of the fact that throughout my life I can be constantly changing and reshaping and evolving myself along the way. Working with a medium that allows for that is just one of the many reasons pottery is so appealing to me. I cannot wait to get in the studio this fall to start!
Currently inspired by: There are so many creators that inspire me for a variety of reasons! A few of them are @kblackheartpoetry, @thelaineydayblog, @maevepoetry, @grimdrops, @brad.neaton.writes, @luniakmonika, and @wakeupwithwillie.
Issue 1 Artist Spotlight | Robin Wessman
C+B: Tell us about yourself!
RW: I am a full-time artist painting landscapes, people and still lifes in oils. Inspiration comes from the community where I live, which is the outer region of Cape Cod. The area is comprised of dunes and beaches in the National Seashore and several small waterfront communities including Provincetown which is the oldest artists community in the US. My paintings are realistic and combine technical craftsmanship with emotion and imagination. As a realist painter, I paint a variety of subjects that I find interesting and also have the potential for a shared experience with viewers.
C+B: What’s one quote that inspires you or informs your work?
RW: “Practice what you know and it will help you to make clear what you do not know.”― Rembrandt
Rembrandt is an excellent example of what it means to have a good work ethic. It is important to show up every day and do your work, even on days when you are not feeling inspired to pick up a brush, do it anyway. Creative breakthroughs show up after hours, days, weeks, months, years and sometimes a lifetime of mastering your craft. Being creative requires the constant routine of using what you know daily to master it, then learning what more is needed to make your work even better. It’s a constant learning process that never ends.
Ideal creative retreat: This one I actually have a very fitting quote. “My idea of heaven, is to wake up, have a good breakfast, and spend the rest of the day drawing.” Peter Falk. That’s a pretty good description of how I would want my ideal creative retreat to be structured. To build on that, I would like to spend at least a month in a foreign country where I would have a studio with 15-20 other experienced artists from different backgrounds. It would be at a time when the weather is warm and sunny, that would allow for outdoor trips to paint plein air. In the studio we would get to paint whatever we want and meet up at a set time each day to discuss our work. Maybe there would be a couple days each week where we would have a model pose and the entire group would paint together. Evenings would be spent socializing with the other artists around a dinner table.
Currently inspired by: Daniel Sprick (@sprickdaniel)– Current figurative and still life artist painting in the realist tradition. • Joseph McGurl (@josephmcgurl)- Current landscape and seascape artist painting in the realist tradition.
Contemplating Roses, 9” x 12,” oils
Original Artwork ©Robin Wessman
C+B: What are your long-term goals for creating, Robin?
RW: Long term goals include continuing to improve my skills as an artist and creating paintings that impact people in a positive way. It is so important to keep learning and growing as an artist. Whether it’s technique, style, materials, subject matter, or even what you want to communicate in your paintings as a visual artist. That includes keeping an open mind, experimenting and putting into practice what I’ve learned. I would also like to get back to teaching and helping others develop their creative skills. There are so many things an individual can learn that will help them become a skilled artist. The sooner someone can learn the necessary skills to paint with confidence, the sooner they will be able to create paintings that fulfill their desire to express themselves effectively.
Robin Wessman
Issue 1 Artist Spotlight | Claira Heitzenrater
C+B: Who is Claira Heitzenrater?
CH: Claira Heitzenrater (b. 1988) is a painter, printmaker, cat mom, and educator living and working in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA. She holds an MFA in Painting from Edinboro University (Edinboro, PA USA) and a BFA in Studio Art from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (Indiana, PA USA). She has been featured on the Create Magazine podcast, in issue 13 of Create Magazine, volume 38 of Studio Visit Magazine, and various other publications. She has shown work regionally and internationally, including virtual exhibitions with PxP Contemporary and the Associated Artists of Pittsburgh, the longest standing arts organization in the USA. She has completed residencies at SparkBox Studio in Picton, Ontario, Canada and the Vermont Studio Center in Johnson, VT, USA.
C+B: What are you long-term creative goals?
CH: My aim in creation is to give life to liminality.
C+B: What other creative outlets do you enjoy or want to try?
CH: I love reading and writing, and trying my hand at various media when I’m able. I’d really like to get more into photography.
Oh Dear What Can The Matter Be, 8” x 10” moon, oil on panel
(Original artwork ©Claira Heitzenrater)
Ideal creative retreat: I’d love to go back to the Vermont Studio Center. New England is ideal for creatives with a darker edge.
Currently inspired by: My favorite creators are mostly dead, ha! I love all artists from the Baroque, Rococo and Pre-Raphaelite periods. I admire a lot of contemporary artists as well, including Aleah Chapin (@aleah_chapin) and Dana Zaltzman (@danazaltzman).
Claira Heitzenrater
Issue 1 Artist Spotlight | R.J. Papaleo
C+B: Tell us about yourself!
RJP: I’m a graphic designer during the day but my dream is to work full time in the fine arts, either as an artist or in a gallery/museum setting. I’m really fascinated with vintage media & technology. Collecting and archiving various pieces of nostalgia is a concept I’m very drawn to.
C+B: What is one quote that inspires you or informs your work? Who said it and why do you admire them?
RJP: “You can’t wait for inspiration. You have to go after it with it a club.” - Jack London.
It’s a great, simple reminder to stay hungry and engaged creatively.
C+B: What is something exciting that you're looking forward to in your life or creative life?
RJP: More and more people are seeking to purchase my work for their homes and it’s really touching to know that my work is being enjoyed in such special spaces.
Erie Canal I, 20” x 8,” acrylic on canvas (Original artwork ©R.J. Papaleo)
Ideal creative retreat: I’m always inspired by traveling on back roads through small towns, looking for hidden spots & views and stopping at galleries & vintage shops along the way.
Currently inspired by: My college professor, painter/sculptor Jim Zingarelli (@jzingarelli); my best friend, Proof Magazine creator/editor Jeb Perkins (@jebperkins), jazz themed illustrator/painter (@yazuka_ruma)
R.J. Papaleo
Issue 1 Artist Spotlight | Lindsey Luna Tucker
C+B: Tell us about yourself, Lindsey!
LLT: My days are mostly full of painting, writing, reading, and being in nature. The majority of my inspiration is drawn directly from nature but I also am inspired by the books I read. I often have at least five to ten books on my nightstand at any given time.
C+B: What is one quote that inspires you or informs your work and why?
LLT: "It is precisely what is invisible in the land that makes what is merely empty space to one person, a place to another.” - Yi-Fu Tuan
Tuan is a geographer who writes extensively on contradicting human experiences with nature - space and place, the intimate and the distant, rootedness and outreach, etc. I love to read his writings and consider how as we as humans are constantly holding opposing beliefs within ourselves. This quote in particular inspires me because what is invisible is always the thing I am searching to capture in a painting.
C+B: What is something exciting that you’re looking forward to?
LLT: I just signed a lease for a new studio space and move in this month! I've had my studio at home for the past few years but have recently been craving a bit of separation from my paintings. I look forward to walking to my studio every morning and having a bit more space to create!
Find and support Lindsey here:
Where The Wildflowers Bloom, 30” x 30,” oil
(Original artwork ©Lindsey Luna Tucker)
Lindsey Luna Tucker
Ideal creative retreat: My ideal retreat would most certainly be based in a remote location surrounded by nature. There would be time for hiking, creativity, reading, and of course, good food. I'd prefer a small group of participants so we can have plenty of time to get to know each other and keep an intimate setting.
Currently inspired by: I'm constantly in awe of paintings by Raimonds Staprans, Fairfield Porter, and Wayne Thiebaud among many others.
Issue 1 Artist Spotlight | Heather Martindale
C+B: Tell us about yourself, Heather!
HM: I am a full time artist/creative, a wife and a mother of two girls 3 and 6. They pretty much keep me busy but I also enjoy cooking and baking, as well as gardening in the summer time.
C+B: What is one quote that inspires you or informs your work?
HM: "I found I could say things with color and shapes that I couldn't say any other way - things I had no words for." by Georgia O'Keeffe.
I have always loved the simple yet elegant work of O'Keeffe. That quote resonates with me, as I believe my work speaks through emotions rather than telling a story through words.
Ideal creative retreat: A historic house in the hills of Europe. Not a lot of people around, great food and lots of fresh air coming through the windows.
Currently inspired by: Leeah Joo @leeahjoo, Shana Levenson @slevenson, and Heather Horton @heather_horton.
Release, 3’ x 4,’ oil (Original artwork ©Heather Martindale)
C+B: What other creative outlets do you enjoy or want to try?
HM: I love to bake and cook and do most home renovation projects. I also enjoy other art mediums like clay and printmaking.
Heather Martindale
Issue 1 Writer Spotlight | Lorna Simes
C+B: Tell us about yourself, Lorna…
LS: I have a background in engineering and construction, but all of my passions are arts-related. I’m a voracious reader (of poetry in particular), an avid theatergoer, a musician, and I host a world music program on WSCA Portsmouth Community Radio in Portsmouth. NH.
C+B: What is one quote that inspires you or informs your work?
LS: My favorite quote has always been this one from Yip Harburg. “I am one of the last of a small tribe of troubadours, who still believe that life is a beautiful and exciting journey with a purpose and grace which are well worth singing about.” Yip Harburg wrote ‘Somewhere Over The Rainbow’ so he deserves our eternal gratitude for that alone, but I love the idea of being the kind of person who believes in the wonder of the world. I try to do that, but some days are easier than others…
C+B: What are your long-term goals for creating?
LS: To continue to write poems that people feel an emotional connection with. It’s all about the work.
C+B: What is something exciting that you're looking forward to in your life or creative life?
LS: Collaborating with a fellow creative on a series of ekphrastic works.
Find and support Lorna here:
IG: @wscaradiored
Lorna Simes
Ideal creative retreat: A farmhouse in the Loire valley in France, with only the landscape and sky for company. Bliss.
Currently inspired by: In terms of poetry, I have a huge affection for the work of the English poet Christopher Reid. He won the Costa Book Award in 2009 for his collection., ‘A Scattering,’ some of the most precise and elegant poetry on the subject of grief that I have ever read, but his entire canon is magnificent. If I were stranded on a desert island, I'd be sure to have my collection of Reid poetry with me! I greatly admire the work of Ilya Kaminsky. His ‘Deaf Republic’ anthology from a couple of years ago is some of the most potent poetry I have ever read. You can find him on Twitter @ilyakaminsky I am a fan of the visual arts, particularly the work of British contemporary artist Victoria Threlfall. She does extraordinary things with color, texture, perspective, and light. Her images are compelling and resonate deeply with me. You can see her vibrant and striking works on Instagram @victhrelfall. Closer to home, the work of New Hampshire artist Dawn Boyer is essential to me. I find her abstract landscape work profoundly affecting. You can also find Dawn’s work on Instagram @dawnboyerfineart.
Issue 1 Artist Spotlight | Brooke Ebeling
C+B: Tell us about yourself, Brooke!
BE: I am a full-time artist currently residing in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania! When I’m not painting in my studio, I’m usually reading, playing games, or watching movies with my partner and our Beabull pup. Something that people who know me as an artist may not know about me is that I LOVE analyzing movies/tv shows/comics. I used to obsessively watch any piece of media I could get my hands on (long before Netflix and “bingeing” were a thing!). I could talk to someone for hours about plotlines, actors, the history of the programs, and more. If you need a partner for pop culture trivia, I’m your girl!
C+B: What is one quote that inspires you or informs your work?
BE: “Above all else, it is about leaving a mark that I existed: I was here. I was hungry. I was defeated. I was happy. I was sad. I was in love. I was afraid. I was hopeful. I had an idea and I had a good purpose and that's why I made works of art.” - Felix Gonzales-Torres
While I don’t typically look to his work for inspiration as a painter, this quote has stuck with me since the first time I heard it all the way back in undergrad. I love the idea that our artwork does not need to be tied to one specific feeling or emotion. We create because we exist, and our artwork is our interpretation of all our experiences in this world, good, bad, funny, or sad.
Ideal creative retreat: Somewhere coastal with lots of beautiful local foliage! I’ve always been a beach bum and find that salt air and warm sun does wonders for my creative motivation! I’d love to be in a place that encourages artist collaboration as we all work towards strengthening our practices! Somewhere with good food, good company, and a beautiful environment for creating!
Currently inspired by: Artists who push their medium past the traditional techniques and subjects. I love artwork that tries to relate to the viewer in ways outside of just appreciation of technical skill. With that being said, I’ve been really enjoying Mark Tennant (@marktennantart), Dayris Felix (@dayrisfelix), Clare Kim (@clarekimart), Mary Kate Noonan (@mk.noonan.art), Ally Pedemonti (@allydoesart), and Sarah Stieber (@sarahstieber).
Same Shit Different Day, 24” x 36,” oil on stretched canvas
(Original artwork ©Brooke Ebeling)
C+B: What other creative outlets do you enjoy or want to try?
BE: This summer I’ve been teaching a lot of printmaking summer camps for children, and have been super inspired by what we’re learning! I love woodcuts and relief printmaking and think that would be an amazing outlet to pursue. I also collect mugs, and would love to someday own a pottery wheel so I could learn how to throw some mugs of my own! I love painting, but because it is my profession, I’m often not creating just for the sake of creating. I’d like to start learning some new mediums so I can give my creative practice some “play time!”
Brooke Ebeling
Issue 1 Artist Spotlight | Charlie J. Meyers
C+B: Tell us about yourself, Charlie!
CJM.: Before the pandemic, I was working as a fashion production manager for an international fashion designer. I am a clutch artisan. Right now I am focusing on building a stronger studio painting practice and improving my health and fitness. In my spare time, I love going to the gym, hiking, and seeing new exhibitions. I am inspired by the artwork of queer painters, storytellers, writers, illustrators, and performance artists. Something people may not know about me is that I received my Masters degree in Montreal, so I speak some French!
C+B: What is one quote that inspires you or informs your work?
CJM: I had a professor once say to me "you can think your way into a different reality." I admire this concept because so often we are limited by our thoughts. When we change the way we think on a core level, it creates a new reality. When we are able to do that, new levels of creativity are reached and trauma is healed. When I was told this in graduate school, I saw it as a fanciful idea. Now as an adult artist living with disabilities, I see it as my core principal of living. It has become the fundamental reason for me to keep going every day, no matter how I physically feel. It is why I make art.
C+B: What are your long-term goals for creating, Charlie?
CJM: My long-term goals for creating are to continuously make bodies of work that are vulnerable, unique, and fearless. I do not want to be contained by expectation, rules, or social media. My goal is total freedom, always.
Charlie J. Meyers
Heavy-Hearted Spectator, digital gouache
(Original artwork © Charlie J. Meyers- NFT here)
Ideal creative retreat: A national park with all meals provided. I would just have to get up, paint, hike, and sleep. Doesn't that sound wonderful?
Currently inspired by: Justin O'Brien @justinliamobrien and Loie Hollowell @loiehollowell. They make the kind of work that lights a fire under my ass and I get jealous (in a good way) and start painting.
Find and support Charlie here: Web: charliejmeyers.com IG: @charliejmeyers
Issue 1 Writer Spotlight | James Dupree
C+B: Tell us about yourself, James!
JD: For the past ten years, I have been a fresh fruit and herb (culinary/medicinal) farmer in North Carolina. I studied English at UNC, and for the last five years or so, I have been working on my career as a writer/editor. After taking a couple of creative writing courses in college, I realized I loved not only sharing my work with other like-minded creatives but helping them brainstorm ideas for their own stories. Since then, I have joined local writing groups, and I find the experience incredibly rewarding. I encourage every writer to do the same. Not only do you see an improvement in your own work, but your unique experiences and knowledge help countless others.
C+B: What are your long-term goals for creating?
JD: Oh boy, I’ve got quite the list of projects. But to keep it simple, I have five possible novels/anthologies that I hoped to have written and published sometime before I kick the bucket. I also hope to expand my career as an editor and help other writers find success in telling their stories, whether fact or fiction.
C+B: What is something exciting that you’re looking forward to?
JD: Further exploring life with my amazing and beautiful co-pilot… Also hopefully finishing my first book within the next couple of years (half way there!).
James Dupree
Ideal creative retreat: I'm not that picky. Somewhere quiet and relaxed is always appreciated. Yet, I also get some of my best ideas driving on busy highways with the radio blaring.
Currently inspired by: For writing: Jeff Vandermeer @jeff_vandermeer123, Neil Gaiman @neilhimself, Douglas Adams, Ed Brubaker. For artwork: Michael Del Mundo @deadlymike and Seb Mckinnon @sebmckinnon. For their humor and knowledge on gaming and entertainment: Greg Miller @gameovergreggy and James & Elyse Willems @jameswillemsfeet @elysewillems.
Issue 1 Artist Spotlight | Priscilla Thomas
Luna Beckons, 11” x 14,” oil (Original artwork © Priscilla Thomas)
C+B: Tell us about yourself, Priscilla…
PT: Aside from creating art, I enjoy reading "sciency" books and sitting on a shaded deck listening to the sounds of nature. I also enjoy keeping up with events and advances in space travel and exploration; and listening to thoughts and opinions from diverse viewpoints on them. What would surprise most people is the lengths I’ve gone to in order to assure I could attend rocket launches and NASA media events. I will NEVER reveal them, I have a clean criminal record and want to keep it that way ;) . My brazen tactics have given me many experiences that have inspired numerous pieces of art.
C+B: What is one quote that inspires you or informs your work?
PT: Wow, there are so many... I am a book addict and would personalize the books in my home library with bookplates (it was a thing). My favorite bookplate, that I adored, had a silhouette of a battered Don Quixote on his steed, continuing on his quest along a landscape with a broken lance. I have never forgotten the inscription above the image... "Break a lance for an ideal." That comes back to me when making decisions in life, or specifically when I am faced with weighing what I want to say in a painting against whether the painting will have mass appeal. I never go with mass appeal.
C+B: What are your long-term goals for creating?
PT: Inspire people from ALL backgrounds to see new ways we can rise and progress as a united humanity.
Ideal creative retreat: A remote cabin in an evergreen forest, in complete solitude - for an extended stay. Give me a nice bonfire pit, big stone fireplace, and fresh coating of powdery snow.
Currently inspired by: Paula Dunn (@pauladunnartist) for her astonishing efficiency in creating mood and pulling the viewer in, and Roger Olmos (@el_olmos) for his perfection in storytelling. His images sweep me away. But an artist that tugs at my heart consistently, that has a longer duration career is Saul Chase (@chasesaul) - the breadth of his work while maintaining a tone that haunts and welcomes, is just, well, I'm speechless.
Priscilla Chase Thomas