I first met Cathryn through Facebook back in 2009 {she was one of the first to purchase a painting off me directly from my Facebook page}. We have been online friends ever since we connected, it's a true pleasure to know such a giving and supportive artist who inspires and encourages others to create. When Cathryn expressed interest in joining the Monthly Painters Challenge {MPC} I was excited that she was coming aboard because it meant I would get an opportunity to see more of her wonderful work, watch her develop new skills and the group would provide an environment to give back some of that encouragement and support that Cathryn willing and freely gives to others. This week Cathryn took the time to speak to me about her art, her world and the experience the MPC has brought to her art practice. Grab a cuppa and a have a read.
Who is Cathryn Backer?
I am a retired Art Teacher (not old to enough to retire officially, but ill health drove me to it) , a Mum and a Grandma, owner of 4 dogs 3 cats, 2 sheep, 3 chooks and 1 duck.
In six words describe your practice.
My Art Practice is mostly undisciplined, but loved with a passion.
How long have you been creating and how did you get started?
I began painting at 8 years old, and continued from there. I remember one of my first paintings was after I heard the phrase 'population explosion' so I painted lots of baby prams, old fashioned carriages, going down a hill. I remember being very pleased with it! I had an Arty family so was encouraged.
Where do you find inspiration for your work?
Inspiration comes from everywhere and everything. I particularly enjoy perusing other artist's work and soaking up the atmosphere of those works and the artist's approach to difficulties. Nature is so good at inspiring me...nothing better for me than a walk round my place, collecting colourful leaves and feathers, listening to the birds.
Who are the people that influence and inspire you?
Pierre Bonet-artist of light inspires me. Turner, Da Vinci, The Surrealists, Modigliani, Van Gogh, Picasso et al! My husband-so caring and encouraging about my Art Practice. My daughter-she is an artist too. My grand children. Too many people to list here!
What has been the highlight for you over the last year?
The highlight of the last year has been moving back here to our 5 acres. Joining the MPC! That is the best thing that has happened to me and my Art Practice.
What are your experiences with being involved in the MPC?
The MPC has been the wildest thing that has ever happened to me I think! I love the group..all the other members are so inspiring. I love the different topic every month....makes me think outside my comfy, safe Art box! I had been doing the same sort of work for years...only what would sell. I had fallen into the money trap. But not now. Now I paint what I like, what inspires me. It's so freeing. All thanks to the MPC!
Where to next? What's on the Horizon?
In the future I would like to continue trying different mediums, experimenting with them, seeing what works. I want to build a Studio specifically for my Art, not one where I have to share with a Harley! I majored in printmaking at Uni in Darwin so I would like to get back into that. Lots and lots of happy ideas.
What a great interview and it is wonderful to learn more about our fellow MPC painter... I have enjoyed watching Cathryn's work go up each month and the support she gives everyone else, so it is lovely to get to know her even berter xx
ReplyDeleteThank you Tracey Grgic Potter! It was fun to do :)
ReplyDeleteTY to Tracey Fletcher King too for the lovely comments. xoxo
I enjoyed learning more about you too Cathryn, thanks for sharing with us! Having you in the MPC group is so wonderful, I love watching your work develop each month, you come up with the most creative and unique pieces! xx
ReplyDeleteThanks for introducing Cathryn to all of us, Tracey. I'm grateful you visited me, which led me to discovering you, your blog and MPC. Love it here. Thanks for sharing. Happy Painting. ♥♫♥
ReplyDelete