Today we’d like to introduce you to Anne Raymond.
Anne, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I started painting in college. I switched my major to Fine Art, hoping to focus on Photography. When all the Photo classes were full, I decided to enroll in a painting class on a whim. I fell in love right away and concentrated on acrylic and mixed media painting. I loved making art, but I never imagined it would be something I would pursue outside of school. After I graduated, I taught art in an elementary school for a few years until I got pregnant with my first child. I decided to stay home to spend time with my new baby, but with all the stress of being a new mom, I needed some outlet. I started painting again to relieve stress and to give myself a creative release. I posted a few of my pieces on social media and was surprised when a few people wanted to buy them. This gave me the confidence to continue painting more and more. Since then, I have been making an effort to create a cohesive body of work and begin selling at local markets.
Has it been a smooth road?
I am a mom of two kids, and I also teach art part-time. A lot of struggle is juggling it all. I’m trying not to feel guilty when I take time to paint because I know having that outlet makes me a better mom. There is also so much vulnerability involved with putting yourself out there publicly. I am always questioning myself- what if my art isn’t any good? What if people don’t like it? Is this even worth my time? I constantly have to re-center my thoughts and remember why I started painting, to begin with. At the end of the day, I paint for myself. If someone likes my work or even wants to buy it, that’s great. But it shouldn’t affect how or what I decide to create.
Please tell us about your art.
I love to make art that is fun, cheerful, and bright. I’m probably known mostly for my tablescape paintings, but I also love florals and working with mixed media. I try and focus on making something because I want to make it- not because of what’s currently popular or what is most likely to sell. I know as an artist, it’s important to have a cohesive style and ‘brand’ for yourself, but I won’t let that keep me from experimenting and trying new things.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
Fine art is a tricky industry because it’s so subjective, and trends are constantly changing. The best thing I can do more myself is to stay true to who I am and not get caught up on the latest trends.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.etsy.com/shop/annierayart
- Email: annierayart@gmail.com
- Instagram: @annierayart
Image Credit:
Hayden Cate Photography
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