We recently did an artist interview with Irene Appleyard, our Artist of the Month for August 2018. During this month, Irene’s pieces decorated the walls of the Cornerstone Coffeehouse.
Tell us briefly about your background & how you got started in your medium.
I grew up in Hawaii which, I think, has planted many beautiful colors in my brain! I’ve always been attracted to and have loved painting portraits. I do love doing watercolors though. I have paintings that are in collections in England, China, Hawaii and many other states in the United States.
How does your medium inform your viewpoint? Or what do you like most about your medium?
I love to use acrylics and the freedom and flow of watercolors.
Who or what have been your artistic inspirations?
My children are a big part of my inspirations, but I have always had a fascination with portraits. I started taking art seriously when my children were in high school, then went on to study at the Art Students’ League and the National Academy of Design in NYC.
Do you have a favorite piece in your portfolio?
My favorite paintings in the exhibit are the profile of the young man with the sunset behind him and the one of my daughter with the lilac dress.
What would be your advice to artists just starting out in your medium?
Just play around and experiment to figure out what your best at.
