Editor’s Note: The Hanover Area Arts Guild has artwork displayed in our Artist’s Corner until the end of June 2021. Shelby Pizzarro, our art wall guru, tells us a little more about herself – KLG
What is the source of your inspiration?
So many things inspire me, but the constant thread through all of the work is my interest in the history behind the objects I use in my art. For me it’s all about the story. I guess you can say old photos, newspapers, and documents are my muse.
How would you describe your art?
Analog and digital collage inspired by found objects.
What do you enjoy most about creating new art?
I usually discover something new. It could be a colour combination I hadn’t tried before or a technique I read about but hadn’t used in previous work. Sometimes they work, other times not, but the process is always enjoyable.
How do you start new work? Is your process always the same? If not, how does it change?
It’s the same in the sense that I normally search through my collection of paper and ephemera. Once I decide on what I want to use, the creative journey can go in any direction. That’s what keeps it fresh, fun and a challenge.
Do you have a favourite or “go to” technique when starting a work?
I love anything considered “vintage”. I have a deep interest in history and travel. Finding the backstory to an old photo or scrap of newspaper is inspiring. Looking through my collection of ephemera never fails to give me the motivation I need when starting new work.
Do you have a favourite medium? Has your preference changed over the years?
When I was in Art School I focused on printmaking. I loved the many printing techniques available to me. The prep work for an etching or lithograph was the best part of the process. I was a commercial screen printer for many years. I have always liked to work with paper, so collage is now my favourite medium. The computer has also opened up so many design possibilities for me. I enjoy taking analog elements, scanning them and incorporating them in a digital collage. I worked in “layers” when screen printing, so the transition to digital art software, such as Photoshop, is a natural one. I feel I now have the best of both worlds.
Do you ever experience a creative block? If so, how do you rejuvenate your creativity?
Of course I do. I find that if I don’t dwell on my lack of inspiration and direct my focus on other activities…be it reading (my usual “go-to” for most stressful situations), knitting (I am an enthusiastic amateur), or gardening eventually the creative spark returns.
How have you managed to stay creative during the COVID-19 Pandemic?
It has been a struggle for me. It is the longest dry spell I have ever experienced. I am glad we are inching forward to better days ahead.
Do you have a favourite/inspirational quote?
I have two favourite quotes:
“Synchronicity is an ever present reality for those who have eyes to see.”- C. G. Jung
“Better to be of the same heart than of the same tongue.” – Rumi
Do you have any current or future projects you’d like to share?
Annually I contribute to the Twitter Art Exhibit (@Twitrartexhibit). Now in its eleventh year artists worldwide donate postcard-sized original artwork to raise money for a selected charity. I was inspired to take part by their slogan, “Through art, we can change the world.” The auction is set for July 3rd, in Cheltenham, England to benefit The Leukaemia and Intensive Chemotherapy Fund.
I am working on a series of decorative journals and a plan to rejuvenate my Blog, now titled The Muse Smiles.
If someone is interested in your work, how can they reach you?
By email: [email protected]
On Twitter: @SisterhoodMuse
The Soon to be Active Website: www.themusesmiles.com