Today we’d like to introduce you to Yvonne Beckway.
Yvonne, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I am an artist, educator and naturalist living in the rural Midwest in the USA. I create my earthworks outside on location with handcrafted natural materials. I find using the elements of wind, rain, ice, snow ashes, soil and fire keeps the art full of surprises. My work is evolutionary and process-driven as I continually bring in new techniques via my own experimental processes of discovery.
Using plants as brushes, masks and the source of my fresh plant dyes, I maintain a raw tactile connection to our natural world. My work invites contemplative reflection and serves as a counter-balance to the chaos of this furiously fast modern world. This body of work started when I was frustrated in trying to work outside in spite of the wind… I finally gave up and let the wind co-create with me.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Business is always a bane. This work is very physical, sometimes even dance like. Timing can be critical and elusive. Watching plants in cycles requires constant monitoring. Working with elements like wind, rain and fire requires constant monitoring and judgment. People always want to watch me work, but I cannot tap into the intimacy when I am double minded. Still so much to learn and grow in…
YVB Studios – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
YVB Studios creates Earthworks ~ a nature-based art, using plants as brushes, masks and dyes. My works are usually large and immersive. I am not really proud of my work . . . more I am in a state of wonder and awe at the things that happen in it. I am happy for the chances to be able to create it as it taps into a state of biophilia that I am grateful for.
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
I did a solo show at Starline Gallery in Harvard a few years ago. It was a whirlwind affair. When the art was hung and the show began, I noticed something. People came in talking but when they entered into the exhibit, they became quiet. Energy shifted. I ate that quiet. It fed my soul. I realized I had transmitted a measure of the connection and energy that fueled the art. I knew I was onto to something if I could somehow enter back into that state of mind in creation.
Contact Info:
- Website: yvbstudios.com (not launched yet)
- Email: yvbdesign@foxvalley.net
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yvbstudios/
- Twitter: ybeckway
Image Credit:
James Harvey
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
Kira Bodensted
May 15, 2018 at 3:51 pm
Hi Vonne,
This was a very interesting article.
You are a very special person and your work is unique.
Be proud of yourself – do.
With love and admiration
Kira
Yvonne
May 15, 2018 at 9:09 pm
Thank you Kira!!! I really appreciate you!!
Mark Ramstead
May 15, 2018 at 11:32 pm
Powerful work and worker, positive vibes, lovely artist.
Yvonne Beckway
May 16, 2018 at 4:16 pm
Hello Mark, my fellow artist!! Thank you so much for taking time to read and comment :))
Bill Funk
May 16, 2018 at 10:55 am
Fabulous Article and interview!
Nice selection of pictures successfully shows what you’re about without overstating…
yes, positive vibes to pull us into your unique and amazing universe.
Very best of success with Immersion!!
Sorina Williams
May 18, 2018 at 10:27 am
Wonderful interview and I love the work shown here. All the best with your solo exhibition. I am sure it will be amazing, I wish I could see it! xx S
Yvonne Beckway
May 21, 2018 at 8:39 pm
ahh Billy, that transporter is still on the glitch or I’d put putting in the coordinates to materialize you here. I would love to have you take a few photos!! Thanks for the beautiful feedback!!!
Ken Roome
May 21, 2018 at 5:04 pm
I loved this Yvonne. And I can completely see how the works connect people to themselves. In each work there is aliveness that reaches into the most secret part of your being; the part that the ego shields so the soul can live itself freely.
Yvonne Beckway
May 30, 2018 at 11:25 pm
omg such a fab comment/feedback!! Thank you so much, I truly appreciate it!!!