Today we’d like to introduce you to Shannon Marie Barnes.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
As many stories go, I have been artistic since I could hold a marker. I was born into a creative family and the arts were encouraged. I have been very fortunate for that. I continued my studies all the way through a masters degree in the arts. While I did have an incredible support system, it was not always an easy world to inhabit. So much of being an artist depends on how much support and credit you give yourself as well. Maintaining confidence when you feel yourself slipping. Sometimes, that means choosing to work a day job to give your mind the space it needs to create without pressure.
Please tell us about your art.
I love detail. For years, everyone told me “work larger” “use a bigger brush.” Eventually, I realized I had spent so much time trying to please others that it took the joy out of creating. I just started making the work that I wanted to make, and it’s made me a lot happier. I’m a huge history nerd, so I’m always looking for ways to dive into some good old fashioned research for a project. I approach my work as an educator, which, technically I am. Other times, I find myself obsessed with plants or buildings. Just simply, the way they look.
We often hear from artists that being an artist can be lonely. Any advice for those looking to connect with other artists?
I guess I can relate to that. But I think maybe it’s more of a personal thing than an artist thing? There’s always free art openings in Chicago, or really any city. Go, drink the white wine, talk the talk, look at the art. Go to comic or zine fests too. People are always looking to connect!
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
I finally crawled out from under my rock and put up an Instagram page for my work. So, if you are interested, please follow! I have a few print-oriented projects, and an updated website underway as well.
At the moment, I’m not so worried about getting my work in a gallery, but I’d like to get back there eventually!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.shannonmarieart.wordpress.com
- Email: shanmariebe@gmail.com
- Instagram: @shanmariebe_art
- Other: https://shannonbarnes.portfoliobox.net/
Image Credit:
Shannon Barnes
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