Where do you live?
I live in West Warwick at the historic Royal Mills, a renovated Mill on the Pawtuxet River. My studio is in a loft apartment with huge windows, exposed brick and distressed wooden floors.
How long have you been a member of WAA?
I have been a WAA member since 1995, with a lapse from 2014-1017, and rejoined in 2018.
Do you currently volunteer at WAA?
I currently volunteer on the gardening committee.
How long have you been a JAM?
I became a JAM member in 2019 as an oil painter.
How would you describe your artwork?
I consider myself a regional oil painter of landscapes, seascapes, and historic architecture. My style walks the line between realism and abstraction. I love to experiment with materials and techniques, and work on paper, wood, linen and canvas. Often tonal, loose abstract washes are first, followed by texture and heavier paint applied with large brushes and palette knife. I also do pen and ink watercolors of scenes on Block Island and produce giclee print editions.
From where do you find your inspiration?
My paintings evolve from being connected to a place. Living in the Ocean State, I’m lucky to be surrounded by so much natural beauty and inspiring subjects. My first artistic muse was Block Island which awakened my desire to capture the ethereal light on land, sea, and the Victorian architecture.
What is the most important skill you should have as an artist?
My latest collection “CLOUDSCAPES” explores the elements of sea and sky. My desire is to create an uplifting experience for the viewer. By using soft bright colors with hues of soothing blue, tranquil aqua, and glowing pink and orange, the images have a dreamy atmosphere.
What is the bets piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“DON’T GIVE UP THE SHIP”, a quote came from my father who was a 20 year Navy man. It applies to both to life and art in the sense of being resilient, committed, refusing to surrender, even in the face of overwhelming odds. These words remind me to persevere and the importance of tenacity. Thanks Dad.
What is the most important thing you want your viewers to take away from your artwork?
You must be a multitasker. Being consistent with style, prolific and creative are crucial to creating art, but you also need to get it out there. Marketing is so important, and self-promotion doesn’t always come easy, but it is necessary if you consider this your job.. There are so many options now: social media, exhibiting in galleries, local art shows, and networking with fellow artists and potential clients.
What is your favorite thing about the Wickford Art Association?
A favorite thing about Wickford Art Association is the many shows they promote. It’s always an incentive to create a new work. I also enjoy the opportunity to teach classes, which I’ve done the last 2 years.
What do you enjoy most about artistry/being an artist?
It’s a pleasure to create paintings that people have an emotional connection to. I am also passionate about art education, and I seek to share my knowledge of drawing and painting.
Do you have any upcoming shows?
I am exhibiting at the Wickford Art Festival July 12 & 13, The Block Island Arts and Crafts Guild, June 29, July 27, August 10 & 24, Sept. 7, Oct. 11, and Local 401 Artists opening day June 21 at Lavender Waves. I also have an ETSY shop – CLAIRE MARI STUDIO offering giclee prints, cards, and small paintings.