As an artist, I am very interested in not only *conveying* an emotion, but *creating* one, as well. After all, isn't the whole point of art to move people in some way? I really dig artists who push boundaries. I think it takes a certain amount of bravery to do what is truly in your heart without taking into consideration that some viewers might experience "negative" emotions. Art should flow, without any "Yes, but..."'s.
In my own art, I employ a lot of symbolism, dream imagery, and mythological themes, because, not only do they appeal to me on some level, but I also feel that they are the shortest point between your subconscious/the collective unconscious and your paintbrush. I am a huge fan of both Joseph Campbell and Jung.
I use acrylics and oils, with an occasional pencil drawing thrown in. I enjoy sculpting, but don't have access to a kiln, so I don't do it as much as I would like. I love to use bright colors straight from the tube, sometimes even bypassing the paintbrush. I love to sit cross-legged and use my lap as an easel. I love to get down on the floor and paint, if the canvas size dictates it. I am not afraid to get paint in my hair. Painting is a physical experience, not just a cerebral one. There is oftentimes no delineation between you and your work.
I hale from Upstate New York and transplanted myself to the South a few years ago. I took loads of art classes in high school, a few in college, and wound up with a degree in Anthropology. I guess I am technically an "untrained" artist, being art-school-degree-less, but I am also a sponge, soaking up what I can here and there, experimenting, and using my intuition whenever possible!
