Episode 10: Marta Stephens
What Muncie Neighborhood do you live in?
The neighborhood near Minnetrista.
I call myself aN:
Artist and Author
What is your creative practice?
My creative practice is a work in progress. Despite taking numerous college art courses, a more accurate description of me as an artist is that I am self-taught and constantly seeking to grow as an artist.
How did you get started in your practice?
I've been drawing since I was a young child, but it wasn’t until I was in my early 30's that a group of friends and I began to meet one evening a week to paint. It was then that I first began to explore and appreciate the richness of oils.
Are you an artist full time? If no, what is your day job?
Yes.
How do you find time to make your work?
I make time often dedicating 3-6 hours a day to not only paint but to also involve myself in any activity having to do with art.
WHAT MATERIALS, INSTRUMENTS, OR TECHNOLOGY DO YOU USE IN YOUR PRACTICE?
I take numerous photographs of a potential subjects to capture the light, shadows, and angles I find most interesting. I save all my photographs on my computer as well. I've worked with pencils, charcoal, ink/ink washes, oils, and acrylics.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING IN YOUR STUDIO / WORKSPACE?
Aside that my studio is conveniently located in my home, the best part of it are the nine large windows on three sides of the room. No matter the weather, I'm immersed in it's light which often influences the mood of my paintings.
What do you wish others knew about your practice?
Art calms my soul. I can easily lose myself with each brush stroke. If my work brightens someone else's world, all the better.
If you could be doing anything right now, what would it be?
I'd be working in my flower beds.
Where do you find your inspiration?
I’m most inspired by nature’s full color spectrum; from spring’s first blooms to summer’s vivid, bright displays in a flower garden to late fall’s soft muted hues and the unpredictable shapes leaves form before they wither and fall.
What’s on your bookshelf or playing in your studio these days?
Everything from Rock and Roll to classical.
What is your favorite part about being an artist in Muncie?
I've lived in Muncie most of my life and love the amazing transformation in recent years to encourage and develop a thriving artisan community. I truly cherish the support and comradery I receive from my fellow Muncie Artist Guild members and those who appreciate our work.
What is your favorite place in Muncie?
Minnetrista grounds and gardens.
What is your favorite creative place?
The views along the White River.
Where can people see your work or learn more about you?
All my paintings and published novels are listed on my personal website, www.mstephensbooks.com. I update the site as work is completed. I also developed the Muncie Artist Guild website, www.muncieartistsguild.com. My page on the Guild site includes additional information, recent paintings, and events that I participate in. My work is also displayed in Muncie businesses that invite members of the Muncie Artist Guild to show our work on a monthly or quarterly basis. Occasionally I post information about my work on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/marta.stephens2/.