2019 E.A.S.T. ARTIST HIGHLIGHT | Amanda Zappler
Amanda Zappler
We're exploring the world of the dozens of local artists featured at MMAC’s 2019 EAST gallery and their mediums. The goal of this series is to shed light on real-life Central Texas artists exploring what & why they create.
Q: Introduce yourself and your work! I know it's tough to explain art in words, but what is your work like?
A: My name is Amanda Zappler. I have thrived on being creative since an early age and pursued knowledge about techniques and tools for artist expression which have been gifted throughout my life. I am inspired by everyday existence and enjoy bringing beauty into the world.
I use art as a means of self-expression. I paint to better understand my reality, and to express my interpretation of the world around me. I also create art to open the unexplored world- a place for curious self-expression, but also a world of new relationships, new chances, new beginnings, and most importantly new stories.
Some of my artistic influences include Modigliani, Cezanne and Chagall. I am also a huge fan of Klimt, Kandinsky and Klee.
Amanda Zappler
Q: With your art, what kind of message or story do you find yourself trying to convey and how do you use your medium to do that?
A: My art features imagined scenes of whimsical people, animals and places and has a story-book quality to it. I draw inspiration from the past and present; things possible as well as impossible.
My artwork varies in category, style and technique. I primarily use gouache, pen, pastel and acrylics on a variety of surfaces.
Q: Tell us about the work you'll be showing in EAST! Is it narrative and/or emotionally driven? What are you hoping to leave the audience with?
A: I wish for my art to convey a sense of hopefulness and joy. I experience so much pleasure from painting that it is my desire to pass a bit of this along to the viewer. I believe that art should be accessible to everyone; the visual, conceptual and financial attributes of my work reflect this passion. I create art to share. When a piece of my artwork brings a smile to someone as they pass by, I feel that I have been successful!
Q: We’re really excited that you’ll be exhibiting at Motion Media Arts Center with us this year! What are you excited about seeing or doing this EAST?
A: I am very eager to meet new artists and network with art lovers!
Check out more of Amanda’s work on her Website
ABOUT BIG MEDIUM’S EAST AUSTIN STUDIO TOUR:
Big Medium's East Austin Studio Tour (EAST) is a free, annual, self-guided art event spanning two weekends in November. EAST provides opportunities for the public to meet the artists and artisans of Austin in their creative spaces.