Featured Member Interview: Iris Musselwhite

What inspires you to create?

Everything is an inspiration.  When I was 12 years old, my Mother signed me up for

art lessons across from my school. I started in drawing and progressed to watercolors.
From the moment I walked into that house and saw the art supplies, I was totally hooked.
I have been taking enrichment classes ever since and you guys know that is quite a while
ago.

When did you decide to pursue art, or did art pursue you? 

Art pretty much took me over.  It was my dreamy place to go where no one else could be, I thought.  Then over the years I have found great friends who liked to do the same things I did. 

If you weren't an artist, what would you be?
I cannot imagine not painting and drawing.  That means everything to me. I have had many vocations but only one career that has lasted me a lifetime.

What other jobs have you had which have aided you on your creative path?

The Day Care that I had for over thirty years afforded me the opportunity to share and teach and affect the lives of many children.  One of my big jobs was to be the main person to touch

each child with art.  My kids were so creative that on many occasions they would totally amaze me.

At the art supply store, which section do you gravitate to first?

In the art store, the most fantastic place there is, there is everything to make your creativity come alive. I am like a kid in the candy store.  I am always checking out the art books for new techniques and new ideas.

What new technique or art form would you like to learn?  Do you have plans to do so?

My latest new technique is creating ocean water with watercolor and acrylic inks.  I am working on it now and hope to have it perfected by September and I can add it to my demo.  It is a great new technique.  Wish me luck.

If you could do anything, and knew you could not fail, what would you choose to do?

To be honest, I am truly where I want to be. Working three days a week and making art four days.  Who could ask for more than that?

You're right, Iris; that does sound ideal!  Thanks so much for the interview.