Beth O'Grady — ART PRESENCE

Which 3 words best define how you would like your art to be perceived?

REDUCTIVE / NON-OBJECTIVE / POST-CONCEPTUAL

What creative challenge have you faced and overcome, that has transformed your art practice?

My current creative challenge is: Why make art? How is making art relevant during this time of social upheaval, racial injustice, a global pandemic, and climate crisis? Richard Tuttle said, “…art’s importance comes when it’s a tool for life, when it makes life more available for us.” Making art is good for my mind and spirit. I hope that what I’m doing also has a positive impact on the lives of others.

What tools do you use as part of the preliminary stages of your process?

Observing, reading, listening, discussing, writing, sketching. I use recycled, repurposed, every-day materials (most often corrugated cardboard), fabric, box cutters, cutting mats, saws, paint, colored pencils, and tape.

How do you usually start an art session - any habits or rituals?

Coffee. Quiet. Standing at a table in front of windows, in the attic studio of my home. I am surrounded by materials, and the ambient sights and sounds of birds calling, insects buzzing, airplanes flying, distant hills, passing clouds, and trees whose shadows fall on the floors and walls of the studio. Time of day, changing weather, and seasons all have impact. I use natural light to create and photograph my pieces. I often read, listen to recordings, and talk on the phone, before, in-between, and after working. Two dogs, Peanut and Stanley, provide delightful companionship. They, and all of my dear family and friends are my anchors, for which I’m grateful.

How do you deal with doubts and fears?

By focusing on the process of making. My best work comes when I am inquisitive and playful, not concerned about outcomes. Also, remembering that making art is about connecting with life, and connecting with others. That takes the place of doubt and fear.

With what intentions do you infuse your art making?

I’m interested in investigating life in the present moment, and reflecting what I discover in my artwork.

Where do you draw your color inspiration from?

Color inspiration can come from anywhere: the world around me as I’m driving in my car or walking down a street, the materials I have on hand, color theory, art history, design, craft, or fashion.

What brilliant piece of advice were you given on your creative journey and would be happy to share?

Approach art making as a process, rather than a product. Pay attention. Be a student of life. Keep learning, and embrace not-knowing, and being open to what comes. Art reveals itself through the act of making. If something sparks your curiosity, follow that. Insight comes unbidden, as a gift. Have a regular practice. Keep a sketchbook. Mistakes are a vital part of learning, and often contribute to discoveries. Learn from others and share what you know. Be generous. Be brave.

What is something absurd that you love doing?

Using social media and Google Translate to communicate with artists, arts writers, art critics, and curators from around the world. I live and work in the US, and only speak English. The online opportunities are rich and endless.

What do you like about your work & what do you dislike about it?

I like making, showing, and collaborating with others. I like when what I’m making surprises me, when it leaps beyond me. I dislike the business and selling aspects of art-making.