Today we’d like to introduce you to Christie Coker.
Christie Coker received a Bachelor of Science in Education with a specialization in Art from Lamar University. In addition to post-graduate hours in the field of art, she has also studied at the Glassell School in Houston and has participated in numerous art-related workshops.
After a successful career as a classroom art teacher, Coker worked as Curriculum Director for a local non-profit organization providing art enrichment for children in the greater Houston area.
Currently, Christie a full-time working artist. She has been represented by Archway Gallery since 2001 and has had affiliations with various art organizations since moving to the Houston area from Beaumont in 1995. Her work is included in private collections throughout the United States, Mexico, South America, and Europe.
We’d love to hear more about your art. What do you do and why and what do you hope others will take away from your work?
I work with a variety of media including Graphite, Charcoal, Watercolor, Pastels, and Printmaking with a current focus on Acrylic painting. I like to develop a textured surface on which to work then gradually add more texture through layers of paint and gel medium.
I’ve always loved the look of texture and the different effects which can be achieved when trying to create the illusion of texture. Currently, my paintings are focused on not only the look but the feel of texture; in my recent series, trees are the focus with their limbs, branches, and twigs being the star of the show.
With this current series of paintings, I hope that viewers can relate to my “Sky Trees” on a personal level. I feel that this is a subject which resonates with people and by recognizing the camaraderie of shared experiences, a link is created between the observer and myself.
Artists face many challenges, but what do you feel is the most pressing among them?
One of the biggest challenges for artists today who are not affiliated with a traditional gallery is figuring out how to balance their creative self with their business self.
Many artists have had to take on the role of marketing and selling their own artwork for it to be exposed to the public. By taking on the marketing and sales jobs which are necessary, the artist must sacrifice valuable time in the studio. That in of itself is easier for some artists while harder for others who may be more introverted; in either case, it can be difficult to switch back and forth from the creative to the logical/business side of oneself on a regular basis.
Unfortunately, in today’s market this is a common thread for many artists and unless there is a way for artists to hire someone to handle the business side of art, this is something that will always be a challenge.
Do you have any events or exhibitions coming up? Where would one go to see more of your work? How can people support you and your artwork?
My artwork can be viewed at Archway Gallery (2305 Dunlavy, Houston, TX 77006) or via the Archway Gallery website (www.archwaygallery.com), my personal website (www.christiecoker.com), as well as Facebook and, soon to come, Instagram.
In addition, I have a show up at The Village of Tanglewood through April 22.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ChristieCoker.com
- Phone: 713.206.2997
- Email: Christie@ChristieCoker.com
Image Credit:
Michael G. Coker
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