Morgan Fink, from Harrisonburg, VA, is our featured artist this month. You can meet her this Thursday night from 6:30-8 at Tin Top.
Morgan answered some questions for us, letting us in on her background, process and inspiration.
What is your medium of choice?
Oil has always been my love. More recently though, I've also been integrating gouache paintings into my body of work.
Why have you chosen your current medium?
As cliche as it sounds, I feel like it chose me! Becoming an oil painter was essentially dropped in my lap when I was in high school. My art teacher nominated me to attend a summer workshop series with 3 different artists over the course of several weekends. That was my first real introduction to oil and I completely fell in love.
What has been the most difficult challenge for you as an artist?
Last year I had been working almost exclusively on commissioned pieces. I made myself apply for several art shows to present this year in order to push myself back into creating a cohesive body of work. Something that would be meaningful and relevant to my life and journey as an artist. However, when I sat down to figure out what this new portfolio would entail, I came up blank! I had been so used to being given the subject, the idea that I found myself a bit rusty at doing it for myself! It took me taking a solo road trip up the east coast to get those wheels turning again.
What is the most gratifying part of making your work?
There comes a point during each painting when I hate it. When I was younger those moments used to scare me, I was afraid the painting would never come back together. Now, I almost look forward to that stage. It's comforting to me because it feels like I'm moving forward within the process. I know that once I've reached the, "uh oh" point, it means I'm that much closer to a resolution. And the resolution always comes. So I would say the most gratifying part is when I've reached that sweet spot, when I can sigh relief that I've made it to the other side.
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| Deeper, Still Oil on Canvas |
Where is your studio?
My studio is at my dear friends' home just north of Harrisonburg. They have two dogs who I get to see regularly which makes it even more special. I like the act of going to my studio, it's a beautiful drive and especially on my way home, I find myself lost in thought, going over in my mind the paintings I've been working on.
Favorite blog/movie/tv show/book that never fails to inspire or just clears the mind.
I'm a podcast person, so just hearing Ira Glass's voice makes me feel at peace.
What artists influence your work - who are your creative idols?
Lucian Freud, Wayne Thiebaud, Jen Mann, Samantha French, Erin Murray, Jenny Morgan
Describe your work in 5 words.
Bright, Expressive, Dreamy, Movement, Shapes
To learn more about Morgan and see more of her work check out her website: http://www.morganfinkart.com
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