Today we’d like to introduce you to Anna Swanson.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
It was not a straight shot. I have always had a passion for art, interior design, and fashion but I never thought I’d become an artist as a job. I did live in New Orleans briefly which was a huge inspiration in my decision to go to art school. I ended up getting my BFA in Studio Art/Textiles.
I discovered my love for painting later when I was asked to do a large painting of geranium flowers for a local restaurant. I started to get a lot of commissions for different painting jobs after that. I painted a small mural for the Austin Children’s Museum, and believe it was one of the experiences that led me to where I am today. I was a curator for an art gallery and was able to show some of my paintings during events. During that same time, I started a small screen printing business called Margret Helene Design, where a good friend and I created designs for tee shirts and home decor. We displayed our work in local shops and events.
I was always interested in art education later studied education, and became a teacher as my full-time career. I am so inspired by children’s artwork. It was a blessing that I was able to teach and also do my own art—even though it was very challenging to do both and have a young child.
As my art career started to grow, I knew I needed to find a balance. Now, I am able to teach art part-time and work in my studio part-time. I love where I am, although it took me years and years to get here.
Please tell us about your art.
I work in my studio at home and create small to large paintings on canvas, with acrylic paint and collage elements such as photo transfer and paper pieces. My source of inspiration comes from travels to Mexico and West Texas, deserts, interior design, fabric, birds, and colorful pattern. I most recently started creating Frida Kahlo inspired collaged pieces on paper. My work is a combination of acrylic paint and some collage elements. A lot of my work is also inspired by color palettes, where I create large abstract colorful paintings. When I am working in my sketchbook, I draw and write down little lists of colors that I’ve seen or that I love together. From there, a large abstract painting begins to form. I also love drawing and illustration, so I paint cactus and birds with a whimsical tone.
Given everything that is going on in the world today, do you think the role of artists has changed? How do local, national or international events and issues affect your art?
I definitely feel the role of artists has changed. So many artists now can reach a much wider audience than ever before, and actually, make a living at it. So much about being an artist or creative person is learning how to handle and run a business, and that information is readily available if that is what you are aiming to do. Artists can get their work out on many platforms and work with so many different creative people like bloggers, interior designers, stylists, photographers, etc. I love that artists and creatives are able to connect on so many levels and show their work to a large audience.
I am so inspired by all of the design trends and mixes of styles: bohemian with modern art, abstract art, mid-century mixed with handmade… my paintings are created with that same inspiration.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
You can find my work on my Instagram @demiandolive, and my website www.demiandolive.com.
I also have my pieces in Austin Art Garage & Gallery, and most recently, I’ve started licensing my work through Greenbox Art & Culture.
I am exhibiting my artwork during EAST Austin Studio Tours next month at Paper Craft & Pantry with four other local artists.
I will also be teaching abstract painting classes beginning this Winter, in December at Paper Craft & Pantry.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.demiandolive.com
- Email: anna@demiandolive.com
- Instagram: @demiandolive
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/demiandolive
Image Credit:
Anna Swanson
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