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1. First off, it's wonderful to have this opportunity to interview you, Amy.
Now can you tell me a little about where you were born and raised.
Born in Bellingham WA. Raised in Tacoma.
2. What influenced you to get into art and become an artist.
I've always drawn--since I could hold a pencil, so it was just a natural
thing.
3. How would you describe your particular style of art.
I think of it as sort of whimsical I guess. I don't know how to describe
it--it's just what I do and have always done.
How long have you been using this style?
Since I started painting in the 90's.
4. This is a rather juvenile question, but I enjoy the many different responses that I get from it. If you were stranded
on a far off island, what items would you want to have with you?
A truck load of art supplies or a library of fantasy and mystery novels. Either way.
5. When did you create your first meaningful piece of art?
I don't know how to answer that. Probably when I was still a child, because at the time I would have strong feelings for
a drawing. I might not like it a month later, but at the time of creation it "was my masterpiece".
6. Did you to well with art in school?
Yes.
7. What are your biggest inspirations and who your favorite artists?
Michael Parkes, Brian Froud. I love a ton of artists so its hard to choose just a few...Stephanie Law, Gris Grimly, Edward
Gorey, Waterhouse, Mucha.
8. Do you listen to music when you paint? What kind?
Sometimes. Mostly these days I like to paint in total quiet (because I have 2 kids and peace is hard to come by). When
I do listen I like Coldplay, Neko Case, Keane.
9. Is traditional art a 'lost art'?
I hope not.
10. What direction do you think digital art is going?
Who knows. I don't know much about it really.
11. How many hours do you devote to art each week?
I used to paint 5 to 6 hours a day 4 to 5 days a week. Now I have a new baby, so I'm lucky if I can squeeze in 30 minutes
a day.
12. What are some of the main do's and don'ts that you can suggest to the upcoming artists.
DO practice A LOT and stay passionate about your work. Paint what you love.
DON'T sign any contracts without really understanding them.
13. Could you see art going through more big changes as it did in the Renaissance and Pre-Raphaelite periods?
In what ways could you conceive these changes?
The world is always changing and evolving. I think to some extent we've seen art change already. i.e. the dawn of digital
artists. Just in the fantasy genre I think we've seen a big movement in fairy art. I remember when I started out and there
only a handful of artists who devoted themselves to painting fairies. Now there seems to be hundreds.
14. What other studies and interests are you involved with (outside of art). What makes you tick (hehe).
Gardening, Asian Ball Jointed Dolls
15. Tell me about: Gray Lady
Its been so long since I painted her....um...I think remember just wanting to do something monochromatic and serious.
16. Tell me about: Dragon Sword
Fairies with swords were popular for me at the time--I don't know why.
17. Without giving away all your trade secrets, tell me a little about how your art takes shape. For example, how much
studying and research at the point of conception.
Usually I just pick a pose and let it evolve from there. Very little thought or preparation comes into it. Sometimes I
have a foggy idea of what I want, but often I just wing it. I like to be surprised.
18. Modesty aside, do you feel that you could leave a legacy behind for other Artists and Art lovers to cherish?
I hope so--I've painted over 1,000 pieces so far and have a whole lot more to do yet before I'm done.
19. Now, for the benefit of yourself and others. What link would people need to go to if they wanted to buy some of your
art?
http://www.amybrownart.com or http://amybrowncollection.com
20. Anything I left out, or that you may want to expound upon?
Nothing comes to mind.
21. What's in the future for Amy?
Hopefully more painting time and a full night's sleep occasionally.
22. Finally: What challenges to you still want/need to fulfill?
I'd like to work on a movie some day. But in the immediate future, I have a ridiculous amount of ideas for new pictures
that I'm dying to get to work on.
Thank you Amy. It's been fun!
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