Steve Rogers Answers "4 Questions"
1. Your stories/memories are personal. What do you think about viewers
bringing their own interpretation to your paintings?
I have never minded viewers responding with their own interpretations of my
work. Their life experiences are different than mine and sometimes a feature
of the piece evokes a long held deep memory. Generally, older individuals
respond to my work because the original impression draws them. I am almost
eighty years old and I grew up in a simpler time. That is reflected in a lot of
my work. This appeals to people who are similar in age to me yet have even
different life memories.
2. How do you overcome creative blocks?
Creative blocks are just a part of being an artist. Any and all artists will
experience them. There are parts of our work that are not particularly
creative, so I do those. Field trips, research, and preparing panels for painting
need to be done and don’t require much inspiration. The creative block always
passes, and you will know when it happens.
3. What is your biggest inspiration?
I think that standing in a marsh that extends to the horizon and experiencing
the feeling that you are a very small part of the universe does it for me. The
awe inspiring colors of the sky, the hawks and ospreys in the air, the rustle of
the grasses compel me to feel something. Raw unbound nature inspires me.
4. How does your art affect other aspects of your life?
Being an artist has given me entrée into working to promote art for artists and
those who support it. I have served on several boards and committees
throughout my career and currently serve as well. I enjoy the work. I belong
to local art organizations that organize studio openings and one that allows
professionals to meet socially and critique each others work. I identify as an
artist. It is my life’s work.
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