Today we’d like to introduce you to Carole Degnan.
Carole, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My story begins with experiencing creativity in my everyday life. I think authentic creativity for me is a way to relate to others spiritually and a way for me to feel connected to this beautiful world. I think my art reflects my appreciation of life and all my struggles and joys.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
I would say my journey has been pretty smooth. I always try and stay positive and work through the rough patches. I am that person that says “I can do that!” I love figuring out how I’m going to accomplish a particular project, fear never enters my mind at that point. Sometimes I learn, and sometimes I might realize I bit off too much or it just wasn’t what I expected, and that’s ok. I just move on.
When painting, I often will take on something I’ve never done before. It might be a different medium or maybe just a different subject matter. I will paint it several times, or until I feel I’ve mastered it. I never say no and this can create many frustrations along the way, but I always grow from each challenge I set for myself.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I work in watercolor and use the delicate transparency and blooms to portray my emotions. I have a sensitive feel to my paintings and watercolor really helps express that side of me. I also work in pastel when I want to express bold chroma and texture. I often will mixed the two mediums to add more depth and interest.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Over the years, I have had the pleasure of several people mentoring me through my journey. Each has given me invaluable lessons that I practice each time I go to the easel. It’s so important to be willing to stay open and do the work. My biggest mentor to date is Alain Picard. I have been studying with him now for two years and he has really helped me established a strong foundation to make every painting I do a success.
I look for someone who is calm, patient, and skilled in communicating their message. There are great artists out there that are not great teachers, so find someone you can learn from that fits your style of learning. I want someone who will give me personal attention, insight to their process, and feedback so I know how I am progressing. Ultimately, I have to show up and do the work. Paint, paint, paint!
Pricing:
- $3.00 a square inch
Contact Info:
- Email: cdegnan@mac.com
- Website: Carolesuedegnanfineart.com
- Instagram: 60cdegnan
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/cdegnan2
Image Credits:
Carole Degnan
