Interview With Artist Linda Monk

“When I approach a new painting I already have the idea worked out. I do not experiment whilst painting on canvas.
I can see clearly in my mind how I want the painting to look and all the colours I wish to achieve. When I sit down at my easel I have to empty my head of any thoughts that might drain on my creativity. I try to feel calm and focused in order to produce a good painting.”

Be sure to check out Linda’s Artwork at her website at the following URL: http://www.art-lindamonk.co.uk/

THE INTERVIEW

Q – What medium or mediums do you work with?

A – I work in oil paints and I use oil pastels and coloured pencils when I make sketches

Q – How long have you been an artist? How did you get started?

A -I became a professional artist at the age of 21 until my late twenties. Then I took a long break from art for reasons of finance. I returned to my profession as an artist three years ago. Now at the age of 46 I am a lot more mature about the marketing side second time around. I always wanted to be an artist from the age of about 10 years old. My parents encouraged me to attend art college after I left school.

Q – Do you have any formal training or are you self taught?

A – I am a professionally trained artist and started my studies at 16 years old.
I completed a 2 year Art Foundation Course at college and then went onto university where I gained an Honours Degree in Fine Art.

Q – Do you have any favorite art supplies that you would like to recommend??

A – I buy all my art equipment from a German company called Boesner. They have stores in Germany, Austria, France, Holland and Switzerland.  They also offer an online order service and postal delivery within those countries. I find that their prices are up to 30% cheaper than the same products in my local art shop.

Q – Do you work with any specific styles or subject matter?

A – I like my paintings to be instantly understood. They are realistic without being traditional. There are no hidden meanings in my work. I do not like intellectual barriers that come between art and the viewer. I am inspired by colour and the main themes to my work are buildings, landscapes and seascapes.

Q – Can you recommend any books, videos or other resources that will help new artists?

A – I find websites such as yours invaluable and so easily accessible. Unlike a book it keeps moving on and gives new and updated information. I think Art Forums can help artists to connect with one another to exchange tips and give advice. If possible I would recommend that new artists join a local art class or club because it helps you grow your ideas and confidence and it is inspiring watching how the rest of the group develop their own skills.

Q – How do you get ideas to create a piece? What inspires you?

A – I always take a camera out with me on day trips and holidays. I usually find lots of ideas for paintings to capture on the camera and use at a later date. I enjoy keeping an eye on what other artists around me are creating, it spurs me on in a competitive way.

Q – Are there any artists that have influenced you and why?

A – Not directly but I do like a variety of artists from all different time periods.  I like art that was produced in the past because artists were so very highly skilled and then I like contemporary colourful bold styles for the joy of it.

Q – Do you have your own website?

A – Yes I have my own personal website: www.art-lindamonk.co.uk

Q – Finally, do you have any last words of advice for beginner artists?

A – If you are having problems with a picture turn it upside down and study it. It is amazing what you can see. I usually find that I can judge perspective and colour balance easier this way when I have difficulties seeing the problem with the picture the right way up !