Capturing Character: Meet Marie Smith

Marie Smith is an acrylic artist based in Sandgate, QLD.  She is also the President of the Sandgate Art Society.

Marie’s work is impressionistic, colourful and has a touch of whimsey and energy to it that delights the viewer.  We asked Marie some questions to learn a little bit more about her artistic practice.

What is your name, and your art business name (if it’s different)?
My name is Marie Smith. You can find me on Facebook and Instagram as Marie Smith Art.

Describe your artwork.
I try to paint in an impressionistic style, capturing the feeling rather than a photographic likeness.

Do you have a specific style that you’re known for?
Impressionism

What made you start creating?
I have been painting, drawing and creating as long as I can remember.

What is your preferred medium?
Acrylic

What is your preferred subject matter?
Portraits but I also enjoy landscapes.

Who has been most influential to your artwork?
This is hard to answer. My mother taught art as a hobby. My father said you can do anything you want if you work hard enough. My husband and daughters are very encouraging. Daniel Butterworth and Jenny Kelly’s workshops improved my work, opened my eyes, and gave me confidence. Confidence in one’s ability is particularly important, and Grace Cross often critiques my work when I ask for advice.

What part of being an artist do you love and what do you find most difficult?
I love playing with paint and creating and experimenting but sometimes I find it quite isolating.

If you could give your artist self in your past some advice what would it be?
Practise more. Explore more, go to as many classes as you can afford, visit galleries, immerse yourself in nature and be open-minded.

Who is your artist hero and what question would you like to ask them?
Van Gogh. What happened? Could you give me some tips?

What is the most valuable tool in your studio?
A well-lit studio is important. I love my overhead projector.

What are you working on at the moment?
I am working on some portraits and I am thinking about several more as I have discovered a few more portrait competitions to enter.

You can find Marie’s artwork on her website: https://www.mariesmithart.com/about

Article reposted with permission from Arthouse Northside