See With The Perspective Of An Artist

Since we’re all about creating, dreaming and delighting here, I wanted you all to meet an artist who I have gotten to know well in this blog-world. Dianne has created some wonderful pieces that inspire others because she herself was inspired when creating them.

Please tell us about yourself. I have been given a great gift by God, the ability to paint and draw anything and everything. I see painting as an act of faith, a journey inside both the artist and the viewer. For me painting is a form of prayer. I love the process from beginning with a drawing to the end result with color and texture. It always tells a story,the layers of my life and the way I see the natural world are exposed. I am a visual and tactile learner. So much so that I often use my fingers to paint.I need to feel what I am doing inside and out.

I taught art in the public school system for 10 years. There I learned to organize the creative process. I had to break painting down to a step by step method so many different skill levels could benefit. I also learned what looks and feels right is unique to each person. We must be true to ourselves. In the end creation begets creation.

I grew up in a family that appreciated art, creativity was nurtured, handmade was special, and the patina of age was priceless. I took private art lessons many years before majoring in art during college. After I graduated with a BA in Fine Art I married my high school sweetheart. He is in the medical field and his job made us very transit in the early years of marriage. That gave me the opportunity to use my art education in different ways. I worked as a Visual Merchandiser ,an Interior Designer, a Faux painter and an Art Teacher.

We now have 2 adult children who have taught me even more. Dorsey, my daughter, has shown me the adventurous side of life and the great fun of being spontaneous. Andy, my son, has taught me the benefits of never giving up and just how much faith can do. I live and paint in my Trent Woods home near the shores of North Carolina. My husband is my loudest cheerleader!

How long have you been painting? I have been painting ever since I can remember.(Thank you Mom and Dad). I always had lots of supplies available and was fortunate to have many good instructors. My parents constantly told my 2 sisters and I that we could do ANYTHING and we believed them.

What inspires you? I was inspired as a child by a local artist that my parents had commissioned to do my portrait. I was fascinated with her Bohemian lifestyle as I sat for hours posing for her to paint. It was like magic seeing my image come to life on her canvas. I was hooked and knew I wanted to do that same thing. That portrait now hangs in my dinning room. I still love looking at it.

As an adult inspiration comes from everywhere. I try to pay attention to my surroundings. My faith is a huge inspiration. I am also influenced by Chagall’s whimsy, Botticelli’s figures, Klimt’s use of pattern and the colors of Wolf Kahn.

Do you have a favorite piece that you have created? My favorite piece is a self portrait that I painted the week my father was dying. I sat at the hospital for hours beside his bed then would come home and have to paint. I guess it was a release of tension. The painting is not sad but rather inwardly reflective. The colors are neutral. I love painting figures although I do more still life because it sells best. Everyone wants something for their kitchen!

What is your favorite quote? It would be a passage from the Bible. ” Do not fear, I am with you.” How comforting is that!!!!!!!!

How do you feel that being an artist has effected the way you view life? I really see!!!!!! I look with all my senses. There is so much beauty God has given us. I want to pay attention!