Bonnie J. Smith
Port Hueneme, CA
Age 71

What keeps you excited in the studio?
Being able to complete art that started as a thought or a feeling and in its finality says what I wanted when I began the project.

Looking back at your trajectory as an artist, how would you say your work has developed?
Slowly at first, but once I started studying artists who were much older and knowledgeable they seemed to give me permission to step outside the lines. Joan Brown is a good example.

What role do you think the artist has in today’s society?
Artists give balance to this world. New perspectives and ideas are contantsly needed. We are adventuresome and take risks. many artists create art that makes people stop and wonder. This gives the observer time to connect with the art, ponder and seek knowledge.

What’s the most important advice you could give to an aspiring artist?
Study art history and live it by visiting as museums as possible. Create lots of new art. When we create new ideas bubble up from within.

Does age matter in art? Why or why not?
Yes I do believe it does and on both ends of the spectrum. Also many curators, jurors feel they only want a younger perspective. I really feel this myself on grants.

What can we look forward to from you next?
More 3-D textiles and continuation of my water series. I constantly am observing what is happening in our environment everyday and that will naturally influence new work.

Is there anything else you would like to share about being an artist later in life?
My work is more thought through rather than just seeing what sticks to the wall as I have gotten older. I actually prefer this way of working better.

http://www.bonniejofiberarts.com
@BonnieSmith5800