Featured Artist – Sydni Sterling
Q & A
Q: Tell us a little about your art.
A: I work in acrylics and other water based media. I have several bodies of work but for most of my current paintings I’ve returned to some timeless subjects — small boats and water. I am drawn to boats for their functional structures and the abstract possibilities found in the play of light that surrounds them. Variations are endless.
Q: What makes you different from others in your field.
A: I think I’ve been able to create a collision between the abstract and the representational in an interesting way. The energetic, fluid style and saturated color choices I bring to the canvas are spirit-lifting. I’m pretty fearless.
Q: What are your biggest influences?
A: I’m an art history junkie so my list of favorite artists is very long. I suppose I most admire Francis Bacon for his fusion of abstract and representational. He also has a great sense of design and composition. And of course I swoon over Monet!
Q: Tell us something most people don’t know about your process.
A: Lately I’ve been using my iPad’s painting app called Procreate to do preliminary sketches. I like the non-committal aspect of it. Ideas can ebb and flow more easily.
Q: Where would you like to go next?
A: Literally, I’d like to go to Hawaii. Right before the last recession I was in a wonderful gallery on Maui. I’m really focused on getting back into that market and making beautiful paintings that express my deep love for the South Pacific. I’m hoping my renewed obsession will keep me sane through the winter!