Today we’d like to introduce you to Amy Minchew.
Amy, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I have been artistic my entire life and naturally found my way to pencil work at an early age. I love to experiment with different mediums and have all kinds of supplies around my studio ranging from pastels to acrylics, and of course, my favorites being graphite and oil paint. I began using oil paints about ten years ago and appreciate the additional outlet for expressing myself, but graphite is where my heart lies. I started showing my work on Instagram about five years ago and quickly found a large and supportive group of followers and peers that helped me really “take off”, and I most definitely owe my success to each and every one of them. I absolutely love me, followers. My exposure on Instagram helped me to meet collectors, gallery owners, and other artists, which has led me to where I am today!
Has it been a smooth road?
Honestly, it has been a very smooth and natural transition for the most part. The first year I started selling my work and showing in galleries was a bit overwhelming and I had to pull back a bit, but it was a necessary step to gauging my hardiness in the art industry. I learned quickly that my flow and inspiration is easily interrupted by stress and lack of flexibility, so I am more selective of exhibitions and commissions now.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
Eventually, I would love to start making prints for those that cannot get their hands on an original or afford one. I am also hoping to start working on a larger scale with my paintings and am always trying to improve my skill to create more lifelike portraits. I have been leaning towards darker feelings and emotions, and I want that to show through in my work. I typically do not plan for changes, they just happen, so, we shall see!
Let’s dig a little deeper into your story. What was the hardest time you’ve had?
I had a real difficult time when my art career really took off and I started receiving gallery show invites, commissions, and etc. They just started coming in all at once and I did not want to turn down any opportunities as I felt quite lucky to even be receiving them, so I became incredibly overwhelmed. I learned a lot about myself as an artist, though. For example, I discovered my passion fades a bit when I am asked to create a piece from someone else’s imagination and ideas, and I have a difficult time being excited all the way through. I no longer take commissions or agree to shows that are too specific and restricting because of this, but it was a great lesson in getting to know myself as an artist. I am also a very slow painter and short deadlines just do not work for me because I simply cannot send in a piece until I am happy with it. It is not uncommon for me to pull a spontaneous all nighter last minute because I have to make it as perfect as I possibly can.
Are there days when you feel like you’ve done everything you wanted to, careerwise – the “I’ve made it” kind of moments?
When I started seeing fan art and tattoos of my pieces it made me realize just how big of an impact my work has on others. It is such a huge honor! It forced me to set a standard for myself because I want to make my followers happy and proud of me. I still do not feel like I have “made it” in terms of what I expect from myself and where I want to be with my skill, though. Perhaps I never will and that is ok.
Contact Info:
- Website: AmyKArt.com
- Email: amykatherineminchew@gmail.com
- Instagram: AmyKArt
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amy.k.minchew
