Peace River FCA

Can you tell us when you first realized that you enjoyed creating art and wished to become an artist. Is there a particular person who supported your decision to pursue your goals? If so, in what way did you feel supported? If so, how did you feel?

I have always had a desire to create art.  Even as a child I always had a piece of paper and pencil ready to draw anything.  However as I became an adult, art became my way to cope with difficult situations and a way to bring myself joy.  My husband and kids are so incredibly supportive of my journey as an artist and I really don't think I would be in the spot I am without their support.

Do you have a favorite medium and if so, why?

I generally paint in acrylics.  I have painted in oils and enjoy the characteristics of oils, but since the drying time is so long I find I never have enough time to let them dry thoroughly.  So I have found tricks to help acrylics function closely to oils and give me the flexibility of acrylics.

Can you tell us a bit about some of your artworks and what they mean to you?  

Most of my paintings are places and situations that I have personally experienced.  I find that it helps to paint the emotion of a place.  I love the outdoors and I really want to show people what I see.  

When you create art do you listen to calming music, are you thinking of anything in particular or have any emotions at all? 

I often watch TV while painting.  I find that having the distraction of the TV helps to prevent me from over thinking a painting.  Sometimes looking up from the painting and then gazing back helps to remove me enough that I can have a more objective view of the painting.  Most paintings go through the same process.  Thinking and planning out the painting.  This is sometimes the most painful process.  I tend to be a impulsive person and I have to force that down in the beginning stage.  So at this point I can get frustrated or impatient.  Then, while starting the painting I am generally quite excited and it goes quickly until the middle, where I generally am a little worried that it will not turn out like I envisioned.  At this point I spend time looking at it from a distance and can even put it aside for a day.  Then I can figure out if it was a legitimate concern with the painting or just being to close to the painting and nothing drastic neeeds to be changed.  most times the end of the painting is the fastest and if the composition and the "bones" of the painting is strong it is just the final touch ups and is quite quick.  So in general my thoughts while painting are quite boring and process orientated.  

In our busy world, time can be an issue. Do you have any tips or tricks to find time for your art? 

If you ever visit my house the first thing you will see when you enter is my easel and painting supplies.  This gives me quick access to my painting and I never have to take down and set up.  It also allows me to paint throughout the day even when I may be busy with other things.  I then always have a reminder to finish what is on my easel. We all know the saying "out of sight, out of mind".  I also always have a deadline that I am painting for.  This gives me constant motivation to get back and paint.

Is creating art your main profession? 

I do say that painting is my main profession.  I am also a nurse, but have been able to work part time as a nurse, and spend more than full time hours painting (or all the other things that go along with painting)

Can you tell us about any awards or exhibitions that have made an impact on your life?

I have been fortunate to have won several awards and been accepted in juried organizations.  The comradery of these organizations is invaluable to my growth as an artist.  watching other techniques and styles helps to refine my own.  The Federation of Canadian Artists is a large organization with national recognition.  And Artists for Conservation is an international art organization with exhibits that travel around the world. 

 Do you have any major goals for your art career? 

My art goal is "One step further".  Whether it is exhibitions, gallery representation, artistic style or recognition.  I don't want to become stagnate, I want to always push myself further.

What inspires you to be the best artist that you can be? 

Watching other artists is a huge inspiration for me.  Even though painting is often solitary, I find that other artists are so important to me.  

 Is there  anything else you’d like to share about your art journey or inspiration so far to inspire others? 

In art there are so many "NO's" in our journey, it can get really discouraging as an artist.  We pour our heart and soul into our artwork.  Take each No as an opportunity to learn something from it.  I was really struck while experiencing the Van Gogh exhibit this last week.  He considered himself the largest failure, and in fact failed at everything during his lifetime.  But he never saw the impact he made on the world.  Sometimes we don't know the impact we make.  I firmly believe that artists can be successful before we die, but if you don't see the results of your efforts, know that the foundation is being laid.  We need more artists in the world.  Don't be discouraged.  

 To view more of Emily's work visit her website- www.emilylozeron.com

Contact Emily by email- emilylozeron@gmail.com

Thank you Emily, for sharing your art journey with us!