Today we’d like to introduce you to Kerry Hastings Hogan.
Kerry, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
You could say that I am addicted to making things. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio, sewing, and gardening with my mom. In high school, I made my prom dresses, took jewelry making, enameling, stained glass, and art classes. I went to The University of Cincinnati college of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning (DAAP) and earned my bachelor degree in Fashion Design. I worked as a designer for ten years before starting my family. Eight of those years were designing with Ralph Lauren in NYC. We moved around a lot with my husband’s job, living and working in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, and Maryland. I continued drawing, painting, and taking classes in each city we lived in. We have been in Cypress, Texas for seven years with our three kids and two dogs. As soon as we were settled and my kids were a little more independent, I started painting again.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
I paint colorful still life, working primarily in oils. I enjoy creating dramatic compositions with flowers, leaves, and everyday objects with graphic patterns. I am fascinated by the way light brings life and form to objects, and how shadows can bring life to a composition.
What makes my work unique, I believe, stems from the combination of all my past experiences. My design background and sensibility come through in my love of graphic patterns, dynamic compositions, bold colors, and color combinations. From years of designing gardens for all of our different homes, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for the complex beauty of flowers and plants. In each of my paintings, it feels like there is a piece of myself. I want the viewer to notice, perhaps for the first time, the beauty that I am seeing.
Has it been a smooth road? If not, what were some of the challenges along the way? Any advice for other women, particularly young women who are just starting their journey?
Pursuing a career in art has not been a smooth road, but it has been a very satisfying one. I have found that some of the largest obstacles to creating art are often self-imposed. Growth and consistency are only achieved through time, patience, and regular practice. It can’t be rushed. There is always going to be more to learn, but that is what keeps it interesting. I would advise artists not to compare themselves to other artists. Look at the work you created over the years to see the progress you have made.
My advice to other women just starting out is to treat your art-making like a business. As women, it is often in our nature to put everyone else’s needs before our own. Have a set window of time that you devote to being in your studio each day.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
Follow me on Instagram @khastingshoganart. My work is also available to view or purchase online on my website www.kerryhastingshogan.com, or at www.dailypaintworks.com.
I will have two of my pieces exhibited and for sale at the Lone Star Art Guild Show and Exhibit on May 31- June 1, 2019, in Conroe, TX.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.kerryhastingshogan.com
- Email: kerryhastingshogan@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/khastingshoganart
- Facebook: @khastingshoganart
- Other: www.dailypaintworks.com/artists/kerry-hastings-hogan-8028
Image Credit:
Kerry Hastings Hogan Fine Art
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