Interview with Artist Beth Grove

For artist Beth Grove, color is one of the most exciting components of art.

“I notice color combinations everywhere—in the way people paint their houses, in the flower combinations they plant in their gardens, and in the outfits they wear.” Beth began her career in art as a staff artist for a publisher of stationery where she worked for 15 years.  Her love of all things home and garden made the transition to creating art for the home decor, wall and gift industries a natural next step. She is know for her pretty and decorative style achieved by creating watercolors using traditional drawing and painting techniques, and digitally adding contemporary design elements.

QUESTION: What’s your favorite thing about being an artist?

It’s pretty exciting when I can create something nice to look at that has never existed before. It’s not always easy, but sometimes the art that I struggle with the most ends up looking like my best work ever! I’m always full of anticipation when I start a new piece – when anything is possible – and so satisfied when I put on the final touches.

QUESTION: Where do you go to find inspiration?

For me, one of the most inspirational components of art is color. I notice color combinations everywhere—the way people paint their houses, the flowers they plant together in their gardens, and in the outfits they wear. For subject matter, I look at simple moments in time —a bouquet from our garden set on the picnic table, the way the light casts long shadows when the sun goes down, or how a cat sits quietly watching his surroundings when he doesn’t know I’m watching him.
 
Creating mood boards on Pinterest is one of my favorite ways to collect visuals that inspire me when I’m starting a new project.

QUESTION: Is there a place you’ve always wanted to visit but haven’t had the chance to yet?

Paris, of course. Doesn’t every artist want to go to Paris? Someday.

QUESTION: Name one of your favorite memories from the past year?

In June, I had my 50th birthday. My celebration was having my Mom and two sisters come to Portland to stay with me for three days. We had talked for years about just the four of us getting together once my sisters’ boys were a little older. My birthday was the perfect opportunity. We didn’t do a lot of sight seeing or going out on the town. We mostly just sat around and talked, enjoying each other’s company.

QUESTION: What is the most recent book that you’ve read? Would you recommend it?

“Quiet – The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking” by Susan Cain. I loved this book. The title says it all. The fact that it’s being recognized that introverts can have power makes me smile.

QUESTION: If you play music in your studio, what could we expect to hear?

Classic Rock, Bluegrass, Pop, Piano, Musicals, John Denver, Josh Groban, Fleetwood Mac, Bruno Mars, Elton John, Cat Stevens, George Winston, Celine Dion, Alison Krauss, Gordon Lightfoot, Les Mis, Rascal Flatts