Eight Artists Who Inspire Me
Hello Everyone!
I thought it would be fun to introduce you to some of my favorite living artists! I’ve got my eyes on these incredibly gifted people all living and working here in the US. From landscapes and patterns, to mixed media and large installations, there are many different art forms represented in this group of folks. Read on to see a little more about these talented artists and their work!
PHILIP DEANGELO
Philip DeAngelo creates minimalist landscape paintings that are full of color and joy. I had the honor of meeting him in his North Carolina studio during our road trip. Each piece displayed in his storefront studio features a quote underneath, ranging from Dr. Seuss to C.S. Lewis. I’m lucky to have collected one of his prints and can’t wait to collect even more of his whimsical pieces. I’m so happy to be introduced to his work by my very dear friend, Kristina Walkup!
LISA TENNEY
Lisa is one of the first professional artists that I had the honor and blessing of meeting and befriending in real life. She also happens to be the mother of one of my dearest friends. I have almost always fan-girled over her work and her creativity, but more recently have been gifted with her friendship!
Lisa’s shalom-peaceful spirit shines through all of her work, from deep-rooted trees, colorful peacocks and silk installations. Earlier this year I had the pleasure to visit and create in her studio, while she was working on a huge installation of paper cranes. She even sent one home with me as a sweet remembrance of our time together. She is a constant encourager and inspiration to me and I will always look to her as a mentor.
THE MILAN SISTERS
Dimitra, Dalia and Dafni Milan are siblings and fabulously talented painters who were raised by artists. Although they are all under 25 years old, their talent and training is mind blowing to me. Each sister has an incredible career in her own right, and the three of them have also done collaborations together. These colorful expressive pieces of art are full of movement and natural elements. Also, I was introduced to them by the same dear friend who introduced me to Philip DeAngelos work! (Thank you, Kristina!!!!)
ALISA BURKE
Alisa Burke is an Oregon based artist who “loves to break the rules and redefine art.” I’ve been following her blog since 2011 and love all of the ways that she seeks to educate and encourage folks to make and enjoy art. Drawing from a variety of inspirations, including street art, graffiti and fashion. Alisa’s blog is full of ways to jump into the world of art-making, and how to get your entire family involved. Not only is she a gifted educator, but her original work is stunning!
TOM UTTECH
Tom Uttech is the artist who created one of my favorite paintings of all time, ENASSAMISHHINJIJWEIAN. I know, terrifying to read and more terrifying to attempt to pronounce. It’s housed at Crystal Bridges Museum in Bentonville, Arkansas. The first time that I saw it, I sat on a large bench for a very long time to take it all in. This one pieces is almost a 9 foot square and it is jam packed with creatures and birds of all kinds. Tom gains his inspiration for his paintings by going on trips to the wilderness. He then names each piece from words he finds in an ancient lexicon of the Chippewa language. They are mysterious and nostalgic and other worldly. Utterly captivating.
Thanks for reading about these incredible artists. I’d love to hear about artists that you love or pieces that you can’t take your eyes from in the comments below!
Until next time!
Andi Garbarino