Today we’d like to introduce you to Angie Cornelius.
Angie, we’d love to hear your story and how you got to where you are today both personally and as an artist.
Ever since I can remember I’ve held drawing and writing tools in my hands. Pencils (graphite and color), crayons, markers and ink were among my preferred creative enablers since they could all create art and words at the same time. After my mother died I re-discovered my long-forgotten childhood art stashed away, and I laughed so hard because I’ve never really changed. Apparently I’ve always preferred more of an illustration style than fine art, as evidenced by the carefully drawn scenes of my everyday life and captioned as only a seven year-old can. After revisiting some of those tools as an adult, the majority of my art and illustrations are created with markers these days. I like their variety of effects, relative fluidity without actually being paint, and they don’t mind a little experimentation. What they don’t like, however, is mistakes and they require a lot of planning since there is no erasing or painting over.
We’d love to hear more about your art. What do you do you do and why and what do you hope others will take away from your work?
My creative process unfolds like the beginning sequence of “Monty Python’s Flying Circus” in all of its randomness. Along the way it collects, analyzes, and (kind of) organizes. Once the process is actually put into action though, the curiosity kicks in. I am a true extrovert; I know that being outside of myself actually gives me the tools that I need to take the work to a more personal place. Only then can I return it.
The how and why is that I need to. It’s a big world and an even bigger universe. It’s well worth the time to explore, listen and observe.
I don’t claim that people will understand my message or inspiration and that’s fine. Sometimes I don’t even understand myself. I simply hope that any art, in any form, is a suggestion to discover your own message and inspiration.
What do you think it takes to be successful as an artist?
Defining success as an artist is an ongoing process that is different for everyone.
The quality that I aspire to is empathy, for myself and others.
Curiosity is the characteristic that I think is essential. My definition of success in this scenario is being able to still feel empathy when your curiosity takes a hit. My personal success as an artist depends on this and I draw on that inspiration. I know a couple of people who can successfully do this; I’m working on it.
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?
Originally from the Rockford area, I now call the Illinois River/Fox Valley area my home and I especially love the city of Ottawa, IL. Ottawa is a beautiful, art-loving, friendly town just east of Starved Rock State Park in LaSalle County. The city and surrounding area is full of creative leaders working to expand opportunities for the area’s art community. Just last year I was so amazed, humbled and honored that I was approached to design the holiday city street banners for Ottawa, and that not one but three designs were used. Public art is powerful and inspirational; I try to contribute something meaningful or constructive when I can. (Thank you Susan Burton of Art Explorations for believing and helping me achieve that level of professionalism.)
I prefer indoor events, and more permanent locations where I can establish an actual conversation with people. I have a wonderful retail spot at A Mess of Things at 726 LaSalle Street, an eclectic space with friends, good vibes, great tunes and tons of heart. I also support and participate the work of my friends at North Central Illinois Artworks. Their Silo Pathways Project public art initiative is nothing short of absolutely incredible.
All artists’ welcome exposure through sharing. My absolute favorite social media platform is Instagram. You can find me @savorandquirke. My original online handle is Lonesome Road Studio; you can find that on Facebook.
Contact Info:
- Address: 4259 East 21st Rd., Sheridan, IL 60551
- Email: lonesomeroadwest@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savorandquirke/
Image Credit:
All photos by Angie Cornelius.
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