Teresa Dye
New Jersey, United States
Introspective, analytical, eclectic
| Pink Daisy 1 ©Teresa Dye |
When was the first time you realized you were an artist?
I think my mom realized it before I did, when I drew my first sketch of a deer at age four. I think I realized it for myself when I was in elementary. Finally, I've got direction and determination, two things which were always absent before.
What is the style of your art?
I produce mostly realism that leans toward hyper-realism. I like to accentuate light and color.
What medium(s) do you work in?
I work mostly in acrylic, but I also love oil pastel. I hope to incorporate more oil pastel into my body of work as I become more skilled in using it.
Can you tell us about your process when painting?
I often spend a good deal of time working on the background of a painting. The background is so important! After that, I use a neutral paint-color for drawing the shape of the subject(s). Then I begin painting. I often use a good deal of glazing. It's still difficult to describe my techniques, because I'm self-taught and still very new.
What are your primary themes?
My main theme is the effect of light passing through an object. Right now, I'm working on botanicals.
| Red Rose 1 ©Teresa Dye |
Where do you find ideas for painting?
My idea was inspired by a rose that my husband bought me last October. The rose was in the window, and I noticed something amazing as the light was passing through its petals. I said,"I have to paint it." That led to the inspiration of my entire body of work for probably years to come.
Why do you create art?
There are some things that only art can convey, so I guess one reason I create art is to have a special means of communicating certain subtleties that I may not be able to convey in words.
Another reason is the allure of colors, light, texture. I can't get enough of the feel of the creamy acrylics and buttery oil pastels. Blends of color, light, contrast; it's all too much to resist.
How often do you paint?
I am painting almost daily. I do find it difficult while taking care of two young girls, but I find some time. Acrylic allows me to work more quickly. I try to do between one and three paintings per month, for now, while I'm still learning the ropes.
| Red Rose 2 ©Teresa Dye |
What is the role of the artist in society?
The role an artist plays in society is largely dependent on the personality of the artist and on that artist's chosen subject matter. An artist can lead, follow, uplift or provoke with their work. Art is often a reflection or extension of personality. Art is so versatile that the artist can take whatever role they wish, given the right art for a given set of social circumstances.
Do you make a living with your paintings?
I've made some profit from my art. I can't say I make a living off of it just yet, as I've only recently seriously started.
How are you promoting art online?
I think Facebook is my current favorite at the moment, closely followed by face-to-face contacts. That last bit is odd for me, because I don't consider myself a very outgoing personality when confronted with a flesh-and-blood human being. Maybe that's changing, though. Time will tell.
What are your main art influences?
I have virtually no knowledge of art history yet. I don't know which artist has influenced my style. I just see something I like, and paint it in such a way as to emphasize a particular something about it.
Did you ever feel like giving up on being an artist?
I'm not sure that would be a possibility. One might give up the visible professional side of it, but giving up art is a bit like giving up a chromosome.
Where do you see yourself as an artist in 10 years?
10 years from now, I see myself in regular shows and in at least one gallery. I see myself with a solid collection of work and a solid reputation.
| Fall Leaves 2 ©Teresa Dye |
Do you have any advice for emerging artists?
Yes. Your work is valuable. Do not fall into the trap of allowing others to take advantage of your talent and skills and run right over the top of you. As an artist, you possess a very marketable skill. Develop the confidence to convey to others that your work is more than "cute" (unless, of course, cute is the effect you're going for).
Teresa Dye
New Jersey, United States
Art Website: Teresa Dye
Facebook Page: Teresa Dye Designs
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