Sunday Salon: Sitting Down with Linda Shelton

One of the most exciting things about doing these Sunday Salon Interviews is discovering the myriad ways that creativity manifests itself.  Today, I am sitting down with a friend of mine, Linda Shelton.  After some initial coaxing, she finally said "This is going to be fun...who would have imagined an interview via the computer?"

Linda, how long have you been creating art?

Since I was a child.  I think most of us have creative talents from birth.  It's the path(s) we choose, as we mature, that determine whether or not we continue in the adventure of art.  Fortunately, I returned after my airline career!

Trio @ Linda Shelton

Can you tell us a little about what you've been doing?

I've been exploring different mediums and trying to figure out with which medium I'm most passionate.  It's still an adventure and I'm discovering that I'm not settled with one particular medium.  Maybe this is the point...discovering that I have permission to do whatever I choose!  What a bonus!

When did you first realize you were an artist  -  did you ever have an Aha! Moment when you knew you needed to create?

I'm not sure I realized that I was an artist in my younger years.  I recall receiving praises from the adult world which instilled the idea that I was a budding artist.  However, I never labeled myself as an "artist" until I retired from the airlines.  Even then, I hesitated in calling myself an artist.  I didn't think I had EARNED the title.  I now know better.  I don't recall my Aha! Moments as being 'noticeable'.  Perhaps it's because I've always been in a creative mode and took it for granted.


What inspires you and why?

I can't put my finger on just one inspiration.  It may be a shape, a color, an article, or an artist's technique that catches my attention.  Sometimes, it's just a thought that keeps repeating itself until I do something!  Why?  Hummm, the thrill of a challenge...of expressing.

Where did the inspiration for "Charm Birds From the Trees" come from?  What is the story behind it?
 
I was reading an article awhile back, in a magazine called Quilting Arts, on how to stimulate your creative juices when you experience artist's block.  One of the suggestions was to think of quotes.  I remembered I had some painted fabric which I saved and cut out birds from a previous project.  So I decided to use the quote "Charm Birds From the Trees" and the art piece took off.

Charm Birds From the Trees @ Linda Shelton

In your painting, "Unveiling", you are working in mixed media.  Can you tell us more about this painting and how it came about?

I was introduced to some interesting techniques in a collage workshop and was so excited with all its possibilities I decided to see what I could do with my 'new found' lessons.  I discovered an old painting of irises that never seemed to satisfy me, so I decided to cut them apart and incorporate them into this new piece.  As it progressed, the ideas for the front began to formulate.  I layered the cut out irises and followed with another layer of water color paper over the irises, curling pie shapes from the center out.  This, then, created the three dimensional front.  I admit it was a challenge!  Then I applied cheese cloth and beads, giving the piece added texture.

Unveiling @ Linda Shelton

What does being an artist mean to you?

It's joyful rewards!            
 

Linda does not have a website so unfortunately I can't direct you to where you can see more of her whimsical, delightful work. 

Shadows @ Linda Shelton

An Additional Note

As much as I enjoy doing these Sunday Salons, it has been more and more difficult to post them weekly.  People are busy, they agree to the interview, but questions get misplaced and emails never answered.  I will continue to solicit interviews, and post them as received,  but the pace will be slower. 

Please feel free to leave your comments and pass along a link to those who you know who might be interested.  I appreciate every email I receive and I look forward to the continued evolution of the Ancient Artist.

Take care.

Sue

Comments

[Paulette]

Linda has some beautiful work, I love shadows.

I know how much work you put into an interview. I'll look forward to any that you do post.