Artist Spotlight: Sarah Rutledge
I'll give you one guess as o how I found Sarah Rutledge. Instagram, same way I find 90% of the artists I love!
Sarah Rutledge is a wildly talented abstract painter, who happens to also give amazing advice at the end of this interview.
It should be said that she sent this months ago, so her #5 favourite thing happens to be a weird coincidence and very on the nose right now. You'll see what I mean. ;)
Let's get to know Sarah Rutledge...
Tell me a bit about your journey, were you always an artist?
I've always been an artist, but didn't call myself one until the last couple of years. Art and music were always a big part of my life and I had planned to go to the Alberta College of Art and Design after high school, but decided not to because of my fear of not being able to support myself in the arts. After many years of higher education and working in jobs that just didn't fit, I decided to stop denying the creative parts of who I was and finally gave myself the permission to follow the desires of my heart and pursue what made me feel the most alive. I threw myself into abstract painting and haven't looked back. Developing my abilities as a painter has been one of the most rewarding and fulfilling things I've ever done.
As designers we see an evolution in our style and aesthetic, I assume the same holds true for artists. What was your evolution like? How has it evolved?
I started out painting on paper and now I paint primarily on canvas and wood panel. My work has become more thoughtful and intentional. When I first started, I painted whatever flowed through me, but now I'm more conscious of how I want each piece to feel when I'm finished with it and that directs my process.
What is the message behind your art? What do you want people to take away or feel through your pieces?
There is a lot of layering of colour and texture in my work, which encourages the viewer to look beyond the surface.
I believe abstract art can help us connect more deeply with ourselves. Through looking at unrecognizable forms, we're forced to ask questions about what we're viewing and how it makes us feel.
I believe in that practice, we become more aware of what resonates with us and in turn it helps us know ourselves more. My work is an invitation for self-reflection.
Did you ever have insecurities with sharing your work? If so how did you get over that?
Not really. When I got to the point of sharing my work, I had a strong sense of self and believed that my work had significance, even if no one else liked it. That's part of the amazing thing about abstract painting, there is meaning and beauty in the act of creating, regardless if other people find it valuable.
Sometimes I come across a quote that speaks to my core so intensely I have to share it with others. Do you have a favourite quote that has touched you or pushed you in some way?
So many!! But the one that comes to mind is "Who you are is more important that what you do." A spiritual director told me that when I was going through a huge life transition and felt completely unsure of my next steps. I truly believe that the value of each person can't be based on what they produce or achieve, but on the basis on their character. We're a society obsessed with doing, but who we are is far more significant in my opinion.
What's been the toughest part about turning your passion/art into a business?
It's actually been one of my favourite parts! I've always been entrepreneurial and really enjoy the process of running my own business. I decided to start working freelance for that very reason and now I'm able to use all those skills in my art business as well. It's the best feeling to be in total control and not to depend on anyone for permission to advance or get a promotion, like a regular job. It's hard work, but you get out what you put into it, and I love being able to see that direct correlation.
Who are your favourite artists or influences and why?
There are so many artists throughout history that inspire me and show me what's possible. If you haven't seen it done, it's harder to imagine doing it. That's what I love about the artist community on Instagram that shares so openly about their techniques and tips on creating great work. We become better by sharing with one another.
Five favourite things right now?
- Paint
- Designated Survivor (on Netflix - check it out)
- Snuggly blankets
- Morning Pages (journalling)
- Hand sanitizer
Any other nuggets you'd like to share?
I'll share a little piece of advice. When you're trying something new or going down a path that many people won't understand, you need to believe 100% in what you're doing. You can't wait for people to tell you that you're good enough or to push you, the drive needs to come from within and you need to be relentless. Knowing yourself is the key to this determination and drive. You can't expect people to see what you haven't yet become. People will judge you and make you feel silly for going after your dreams, but most of the time it's because they never had the courage to go after theirs.
