Spotlight: Holly Glenn, Painter, Soap Maker, Jewelry & More!
Holly Glenn has so much energy that takes her down many creative paths. She recently has taken on wire wrapped jewelry, but loves to paint, sculpt, do woodwork and make amazing soaps.
Tell us a little bit about you and what you do. What initially inspired you to be an artist?
I am an artist who works in many different mediums, including paint, soap making, jewelry, sculpture and woodwork. My mother is an artist so growing up, I loved playing in her craft room and making creations.
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How did you find yourself on an artist’s path? Always there? Lightbulb moment? Dragged kicking and screaming?
I have always loved making art and trying new mediums. I used to be a school teacher but knew that my passion laid in art. After my son was born, I decided to quit teaching and pursue my art career.
Tell us about your most challenging piece. What were the obstacles and how did you get past them?
My most challenging piece was a 5 foot by 3 foot oil painting of a naked pregnant woman looking down stairs. This piece took me several months to complete because I did not like the perspective. I was trying to create something realistic but my style has never been realism. When I finally embraced the inaccurate lines, my painting took on a life and energy of its own.
Have you ever had a “never again” moment, then gone and did it again?
There have been several art shows where I paid a hefty entry fee and didn’t make it back with sales. At these times, I question my decision to be an artist. However, by the following weekend, I do it all over again!
Where do you find inspiration for your work?
A lot of inspiration for my work comes from nature. I take a lot of walks and something I see will spark an idea for a creation. Nothing is more beautiful than Mother Earth.
Do you plan your work out all ahead of time, or do you just dive in with your materials and start playing?
Most of my art pieces are not pre-planned creations. Instead, I have a general idea and then start playing with material. I usually work and rework an art piece many times before I am happy with the outcome.
When is your most productive time?
My most productive time is when my kid is taking a nap! I used to be able to work day in and out but now I have to strategically plan my creations during nap time.
What is your favorite storage tip for your creative supplies?
My favorite storage bin is a plastic tackle box from Goodwill. Many of my materials are repurposed. There is no need to buy all new material when so many discarded items are just waiting for a new life!
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?
The best piece of advice I have received is to keep a positive attitude. Even when inspiration and shows are slow, if you focus your thoughts to be positive and constructive, the outcome will follow suit.
How do you keep inspired to go in the studio and produce new work?
When I feel lack of inspiration, I change up my routine. I listen to my inspiration so if it is low, I know that it is not a day to be artsy. Instead, I will take my son to a new park, or work on updating a room in my house. Creativity comes when it will. It cannot be forced.
Tell us more about your latest creative adventures!
The latest technique I have been working with are very intricate and whimsical wire wrapped pendants made from sterling silver.
Learn more about Holly Glenn:
Holly will come to your home (in the Austin, Texas area – or I’m sure if you pay her airfare she’d go anywhere!) She’ll bring all of the supplies to teach you and your friends how to paint a beautiful piece of art!
Interview posted August, 2017
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