We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Rebecca Love. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Rebecca below.
Rebecca, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
It was when I stepped off the plane on my first visit to Kenya in 2006, I realized black and white was going to color my experience in such a profound way I would never be the same. nor would my work. I developed a deep appreciation of the oneness of all colors. I was on this journey with a group of deeply committed people whose hearts for the oppressed outweighed any purpose I had at the moment for my own life’s path and desires. Each step deeper into Kenya’s landscapes and village environments brought me closer to that oneness. Even though I may have been the only one in the village circles that looked like me, over the years I have come to not even notice the difference nor do they.
On that first trip I met a group of women that were inquisitive, gracious and trusting enough to embark on a journey with me and my work in capturing their images in life masks so I could tell their stories. Their faces tell of life that is different, filled with the color of hardship, pain and gratitude. We are family now and I feel as much at home in Kenya as I do in my own home.
When you look past color, race, lifestyle and cultural differences you see the heart and that is when you can be effective in developing your bonds of friendship and family. Differences you will certainly have and the success of your relationships in different communities depends on having those open communications with listening ears, asking questions and sharing respectfully. I developed a working relationship with these women and their families. They have allowed me to tell their stories of with color and vibrancy..
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Growing up in a small Mississippi town, my artistic journey began as a small child with my hands in the mud playing with shapes and forming them into creative works of art. Clay is a medium that continues to captivate me. Educating myself throughout high school and college years in art programs could not match the priceless experience of self-taught experimentation with hands on clay adventures into the unknown. Ten thousand hours plus have brought me to my two bodies of work in hand formed pottery and life masks. Each body of work tells their own unique stories. The life masks narrate captivating tales of intriguing characters with the patrons I meet here in the states and on my travels abroad. One of my most cherished experiences was working with a group of remarkable women in Nairobi, Kenya, where I became their storyteller through art. Their vibrant culture, music and life stories infuse my work with depth and meaning. By incorporating techniques like underglaze painting and Sgraffito, I bring their stories to life on clay, much like a painter on a canvas.
As a ceramic artist, I am captivated by this unique, old world art form of surface design called Sgraffito and the story telling it can express. With meticulous attention to detail, I etch intricate patterns and designs onto both my pottery and life masks. This creates a harmonious blend of story, beauty and functionality. Through the creation of shape, texture and form the work can evoke a sense of timeless elegance, inviting the viewers to explore the rich history and cultural significance of storytelling and this ancient art form of design. Each piece I create is a testament to my passion for preserving and revitalizing both traditions while infusing my own artistic vision into the work. The journey of discovery within each piece celebrates the artistry and craftsmanship that transcends time.
These precious memories created in pottery and life masks can become cherished heirlooms and tangible representations of a person’s legacy for generations to come. I love the mud and while my hands can create, it will hold me captive!
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?
Passion, Tenacity, Belief! Definitely Passion for the path you are on no matter when you begin it and how many times you may change your medium. It is essential to moving forward. If you lack the passion you will not move forward in any kind of happiness or success. Tenacity is key to growth. Keep moving forward and stop looking back at what didn’t happen. Rejection is actually motivating! And if you are passionate, nothing will stop you! Last but not least, Belief in yourself at any age creates such vibrancy in the world and your art. It is never to0 late to be creative and stand up and say,” I am an artist and this is my work!” Believe it!
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
My success would not be where it is today if it weren’t for my relationship and faith in my Creator. After all,
I was created out of that very simple substance I have been playing and creating in for over 30 years, Mud.
The guidance and desire to learn and grow as an artist created by the great Creator, Himself has always been around me. I have overcome the challenges of insecurity, failures and losses. It’s that hope that is ever present that encourages me to take that one more chance, keep moving forward even though it looks impossible or not be thrown off balance with a slight bump in the road toward a goal. I know who’s plan is perfect and nothing else has ever worked to keep me joyful and creative through all the adversity in the world. You are never alone on the journey!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://rebeccalovesculpture.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebeccalovesculpture
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arelove3
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
