We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Lynn Alker. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Lynn below.
Lynn, so happy to have you with us today. You are such a creative person, but have you ever head any sort of creativity block along the way? If so, can you talk to us about how you overcame or beat it?
One of the best ways I’ve found to get over creative hurdles is to have multiple pieces in process. I’ve never been one to work exclusively on one piece. When I get to what feels like the last third of the painting, then I want to stay focused on the end results, and I’m excited to get to the finish line.
This way nothing is precious and allows for more risks. Also I don’t get bored and restless, and if things aren’t happening, I have others in the wings.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
As an “emotional painter” I rely on my paintings to speak for me. They are my therapists, my confidants, my spiritual advisors; and my studio is my sanctuary. My art practice is the most important part of my everyday life. On the days I cannot paint; I feel a void that gnaws until I get back to it. That’s not to say I never take breaks, but I miss it when I do.
My work involves expression abstraction and abstract figurative. I work large and small on varying substrates. I like to mix it up and enjoy working in all the different ways I can experience.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Getting a later start in my artistic journey has been beneficial to me. Being able to put all my energy and focus on painting has helped me develop stronger works and a structured work ethic. I had no experience when I started painting and I knew and accepted that I had, and still have, much to learn. I would say that my desire and determination have been the driving forces for what success I have had.
Three words of advice from me would be -1- Focus (on your work), -2-Practice (your skills), -3- Show (your work).
As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?
One of my many favorite creative life books is “On Art and Mindfulness” by artist and teacher Enrique Martinez Celaya. It is full of short thoughts, ideas and principles from his teachings at the Anderson Art Center in Colorado. An easy book to pick up for a few quick, thoughtful observations that stick with you. Much of his advice centers around being authentic and genuine in your work, which I aspire to be.
Contact Info:
- Website: lynnalker.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/lynnalker
- Facebook: Facebook.com/lynnalkerart
Image Credits
Douglas Stephen Pitts Photography
