Our community of artists is the core foundation of Artfinder. With such a vast community based in all corners of the world, we wanted to help them share more about their artist journey, their artistic process and technique and what inspires them. Today, we chat with one of our amazing painters, Amanda Horvath.
Can you introduce yourself, where you are from and how long you have been with Artfinder for?
I'm Amanda Horvath and I'm from Derbyshire in the United Kingdom. I have been painting, drawing and creating art from childhood and I joined Artfinder in 2015.
In just a short sentence, how would you describe/summarise your work?
My work is a response to nature and the landscape around me. I combine impressionist influences with expressive mark making to create paintings that are like a conversation with the natural world.
What influences you and your work?
I'm influenced by nature, trees, sunlight, running water, streams and I love the sea although I think I paint forest scenes mostly because that's where I live. In terms of artists I'm influenced by the impressionist painters, I particularly like the way they used optical mixing and this has had an important effect on the way I work.
What does your creative process involve?
My creative process begins outdoors where I take my sketchbook and a camera. The drawings and photographs are a starting point to continue working on canvas. The images I record take me back to the place so that I can paint intuitively from the memories and feelings of the place. I usually start by covering large areas of the canvas in a wash of dark colour. Then I build up layers of texture with a palette knife. Later as the painting progresses, I use brushes to paint the finer details.
Have you changed as an artist over time?
My work has changed many times during my lifetime. At one time I worked with embroidery and textiles as my main medium. Later I worked conceptually with photography, film and textiles. For the last few years I have concentrated on nature, trees, woods and landscape. Through the ongoing process of creative development I increasingly love working with lots of colour and texture. At a turning point in my life I went to the woods and the light was perfect, the sun was falling through the leaves and there were sun rays creating strong dramatic shadows over the forest floor. The joy I felt being in the light of the forest was like an enlightenment and that's how the shadow and light paintings began, I've been painting the strong shadows, light and colours in my work ever since then.
What’s your favourite artwork you created and why?
I love all my work. Each painting is individual, different and has it's own personality so to speak. I take great care when I'm painting, every work of art is made with love.
What do you think is the role of art/artists in society?
I think the role of an artist is to bring some joy and beauty in to the world. To inspire people, bring peace, harmony, hope and a message that both experiencing and creating art can be a great healer.
What advice do you have for emerging artists looking to make a living out of their art career?
It's important to be dedicated and work hard as an artist. You need a disciplined approach to your practice, also you'll need to continue learning and developing new ideas, being flexible and innovative. Being an artist is a life long experience, it's not just about earning a living, art will feed your soul so enjoy the journey.
Cover image via Amanda Horvath
