Artist Profile: Diane Salter

Artist: Diane Salter
Business name: Keepsakes by Diane
Location: Pennsylvania, USA

Blog: My Art Journal

Diane, how do you describe your work?
I'm a mixed media artist. I like a lot of color and texture. I'm always experimenting with different techniques and styles--right now I'm into whimsy. Last year it was more Victorian, so I'm always changing, which is why I love mixed media. I like the idea of my business name because that's how I want people to feel when they have my art--a keepsake--whatever the piece may be.


What is your creative process like?

I try to be intuitive about it, but I usually have an idea of what I want to do. As I get more into what I'm making is when it becomes more organic for me--I love this part. I'll work on a piece and then leave it for a few hours, and then come back with a fresh eye, and I'll find or see things that I never even thought of before--it's like the piece is taking over and telling me what to do. This doesn't happen all the time, but usually it does. I think that's my favorite part of making art.

As far as the atmosphere in my art room while I'm there--sometimes I have music going or I'll put in a movie--or just silence--whatever strikes my fancy : )  Right now I'm enjoying the the music of the outdoors. Our Spring has finally arrived and I can open up the windows. I can hear the birds, kids playing, and even the neighbors gossiping : ) I really do enjoy these sounds!


What kind of training did you have which helped you achieve your current level of artistry?

Well as it happens, my last post is about how I had no formal training, which I'm actually glad about. I don't want any rules when I make art---I want to be just like a child in art class--have fun. I've always been in some kind of craft all of my adult life, but it was about 5 years ago that I discovered mixed media. It was like a whole new world for me--so much to learn. I didn't even know what gel medium was! So where did I learn everything from?--mostly art books, and then in the last year, I' ve discovered online classes--I can't recommend these enough. If you find a class that interests you and sign up and remain dedicated to it, you WILL learn. Another new place that I credit my "education" to are blogs--what an amazing community of people who share their talents!

Is there a tool or material that you can't imagine living without?

Funny enough--probably gel medium--which I never even heard of 5 years ago--but of course there's my acrylics, paint brushes,etc.,etc., etc.!


What is your best piece of advice for those who would like to rise in their level of artistry?
If you have the passion for it, then you'll keep going, no matter how fustrating it can get, if you're still learning. I know this is redundant, and everyone says this -- you just have to practice, practice, practice. And don't be so hard on yourself. I took a class with Mystele (Gut Art), and she always would tell us--it's the process, not the product. How will you learn if you don't try new stuff, and yes it will probably look awful to you, but don't stop, because you will learn--this is the learning process. I used to be like this--I still am, but I'm getting better. I would set myself up to fail before I even tried--what kind of attitude is that? Of course you'll fail if you think that--so I'm teaching myself NOT to think that way.

What takes up the majority of your time besides your art?

Art---really--I have a problem--I'm addicted. I do however enjoy going to the movies once in a while. And on the weekends--garage sales and flea markets, but that's art related, because I'm looking for "art supplies" . I do love using pieces that have ayou history to them. I also enjoy the outdoors--I love being in the sun and taking walks.

What would you like to do in the future?

I would love to teach in a workshop, not online (that doesn't really appeal to me), but a real life workshop. I love explaing the process, and I also love the excitement of people who want to learn. I sell my art at art shows, and I enjoy meeting and talking to people who are interested in my work and ask questions--this whole art experience is just fun!!

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