Wednesday, May 16, 2012

Artist Profile: Barb Forrister

Barb Forrister
Austin, Texas
 
1. What other ideas for this theme "rituals" did you have? Last year, my sister passed away and I had thought that I might make a piece to honor her memory. However, I find that the grieving process has been difficult and only time heals wounds.

2. Are you involved in any community or group projects where you donate your work? if yes, what project or projects? I have donated my work to the Alzheimers Art Quilt Initiative, American Cancer Society and Austin Fiber Artists. This year, I have been asked to donate a piece for a silent auction to benefit a friend who will be undergoing a heart transplant. I wish her all the best!
3. Do you belong to a small group of like-minded artists? yes/no Name/where? What is the best part of being part of an art group? I belong to the Austin Art Bee which includes some of the most amazing women I know! The best part of being a member is that we gather to create art individually and as a group, while supporting each other both in our art and personal endeavors.
4. Are you a member of a professional art organization, such as SAQA? Have you ever held a volunteer position in the organization, and if so, what? I am a professional artist member of SAQA and I have served as Secretary and Vice President for the Austin Fiber Artists.

5. What is your favorite palette of colors that you use in your work? Name 5. Name 5 of your least favorite colors? I love working with green, red, blue, yellow and brown. Although, I am not fond of pastel colors. I feel that they are essential in letting other colors shine!

6. Describe your creative work space in 20 words or less. Are you messy or tidy? I have a painting studio and a sewing studio. Sometimes, when I am working on projects, I have been known to take over the entire house and create quite a mess!

7. What is your creative process? Think, draw, design, make or right to the design? I like to draw and sketch from photographs, then transfer my designs to fabric. However, some pieces are just born spontaneously with a pair of scissors in hand. It really depends on the moment.  

8. Is there a particular object or shape that shows up repeatedly in your work? Why? I create nature and wildlife scenes. Consequently, trees are present in much of my work.

9. If you had to choose a favorite artist from another media, who would it be, and why? I love Renoir! The way that he portrays shadows and highlights is absolutely amazing!
 

10. Have you written a book related to Art Quilts and Quilting or have an instructional DVD? If so, can you tell us the title or titles? I have written an article for Interweave Quilting Arts In Stitches Emagazine Volume V called "3 Dimensional Wildflowers." The article contains photos and accompanying videography on how to create in a dimensional manner. 

11. Do you make art full time? If you have another career, would you describe what you do? and how you incorporate art into your life? I am a full time, wife, mother and artist. My husband travels frequently and my daughters are teenagers which means that I am often free to create my art.

12. What is your most thrilling news to date in relation to your art quilt life? I have begun writing articles, judging quilt shows and teacing classes. I love this part of my life.  
 

2 comments:

  1. Barb, what fun to read "all about" you! Your "Sunrise Serenade" is gorgeous ... can't wait to see it in person!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Thanks, Linda. You're a sweetheart!

    ReplyDelete

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