LIZ KETTLE

Interview with Mixed Media Artist, Liz Kettle

By Jackie Marsal

What can we say about Liz…well for starters she is wonderful! I have had the pleasure of working with her in the last year and there is never a dull moment! She has an exuberant and colorful personality that matches her art. I spoke with Liz recently about her career as a Mixed Media Artist, and to talk about what inspires her.

How long have you been a mixed media artist?
I have been mixing up my media for a long time. I could never just commit to one type of art media even when I was a kid. I started combining and mixing my media with purpose about 8 years ago.
How would you describe your style?
Eclectic! My work is generally divided into two styles: abstract and narrative. However, I love so many different styles that I guess you could say I am a mixed style artist as well as mixed media.
Was there an artist that inspired you in the beginning of your career?
Too many inspiring artists to count! If I had to focus on just one I would say Jan Beaney and Jean Littlejohn. Actually that is two but they are a team so I am counting them as one. Their innovative stitch and mixed media work captures the essence of ‘what if’.
Apart from creating art, what else do you do within the industry?
I love to teach! Classes and workshops are so much fun and I get so jazzed when a student gets really excited about creating art that is personal and unique to them. I also write books and articles for magazines and blogs. I also host free on-line book studies on my web site.
What is the most challenging part about creating mixed media art?
Confidence. When you are out there creating something personal and authentic you are working without a pattern, template or rules. It can be really hard to trust in your skills, your intuition and your instincts.
What’s the best advice you could give someone who wants to try quilting or textile art for the first time?
First get the right tools for the job and don’t skimp. Getting by with inferior tools has cost me time, money and frustration. Second be brave! There is no ‘perfect’ in art. Follow your heart and make what you love. Last one…is it ok that I didn’t stop at one thing? Ok, PLAY. We get so focused on producing stuff that we forget to play. Play is the fuel for creativity. Playing means you just mess around with your supplies and tools with no goal in mind. Have fun and lose yourself in the flow.

Go to Textile Evolution to read more about Liz Kettle