2018 E.A.S.T ARTIST HIGHLIGHT | Theresa Schlossberg
Theresa Schlossberg
We're exploring the world of the dozens of local artists featured at MMAC’s 2018 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.
Tell us a little about yourself and your art. How did you make your way to being an Austin artist?
“City”
All my past careers have all dealt with some artistic medium, but I was always working on the foundation of others works, never my own. About 8 years ago, I embarked on my journey as an artist by gaining my MFA in a medium with which I had no prior experience: non-representational oil painting. So you could say, I took the scenic route.
You've mentioned that you have a background in film. Does film or other mediums inspire your current work as an artist?
Most definitely. Every experience I've had inspires or influences each piece of art. It is our past that helps us create depth and provide meaning and context to our work. I draw upon past experiences and knowledge daily such as studying a film effect to help me create dynamic motion or a motif and drive mood. Yet, for my botanical works, this draws upon my plant knowledge and graphic skills from Landscape Architecture. It is our diversity of experiences and knowledge that make each work unique.
“Wildflowers
Being an artist, you have to be open to growth and change. How have you seen this in your own work? Do you have any predictions or aspirations for further growth?
From my thesis five years ago to my work today, I have seen tremendous change. Some good, and some bad. However, I take what I learn from both the good and bad and employ that into my next project or series. Part of this is due to my desire to experiment with techniques and mediums. I like to challenge myself. It keeps my mind stimulated and allows me to grow further as an artist. I have no idea where my further growth and change will take me, but I look forward to taking each new step.
CHECK AT MORE OF JULIE’S WORK ON HER WEBSITE AND INSTAGRAM!
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.