Artist Marianne Mitchell mixes her paints.
Scottsdale Artists’ School: What inspired you to become an artist?
Marianne Mitchell: I have always seen myself as an artist as opposed to deciding to “become” one. My first memory of painting goes back to kindergarten. My parents showed one of my splatter paintings to their friend who was in the design world. He exclaimed, “I wish I could do that!” That became an indelible moment in my young life and profoundly shaped my personal identity. Not long after that, I knew I wanted to attend art school. When people say, “You’re lucky to be an artist,” I reply, “art chose me!”
SAS: Was there a moment when you felt you had arrived as an artist?
MM: I’m an experiential learner as opposed to an academic learner. Being a student was hard for me. The day I left art school, I felt free. However, it has taken me years to accept that I am a “good” artist. Have I arrived? Good question! There are milestones—receiving a prestigious grant, gallery representation in major cities…19 years in a respected Philadelphia gallery—but, what’s the saying? “You’re only as good as your last success.” There are always more challenges. I dream of someday having a retrospective at the Guggenheim or MoMA. I think that would make me feel like I’ve finally arrived.
Marianne Mitchell, Just Before, oil on panel, 24 x 24" (60 x 60 cm)
SAS: Do you have moments of doubt or uncertainty? How do you overcome it?
MM: My doubts are more about my talent and the difficulties of making a living as an artist than whether I should be an artist. When I’ve tried to walk away from my career something like a show or a commission has kept me on the path. When I imagine doing something else, my heart knows it’s impossible. I believe you must follow your heart and be true to yourself, whatever the consequences.
SAS: Favorite location to paint?
MM: Monhegan Island, off of Maine. [It] kindles great painting energy. Artists have been inspired by this magical place for centuries. A Monhegan resident once said, “The veil is thinner here” as an explanation for the heightened emotional sensitivity one experiences on the island.
Marianne Mitchell, Blue Highway, oil on panel, 24 x 24" (60 x 60 cm)
SAS: What inspired you to become an instructor?
MM: I spent the first 15 years of my painting career as a studio artist. During this time, I developed my artistic voice and skills which founded my professional success. In 1999 I was asked to teach at a respected art center in Philadelphia. I discovered that the years of having my own practice made teaching easy and fun. It felt right to help others on their artistic journey by sharing the techniques and wisdom I’d gained. Knowing that I’ve been instrumental in another person’s creative transformation gives me joy and inspiration.
Marianne Mitchell, Deep Listen, oil on panel, 24 x 24" (60 x 60 cm)
SAS: Tell us about your teaching at SAS.
MM: I began teaching at SAS in May 2016. The staff makes me feel welcome and appreciated. The facility offers well-appointed studios in a lovely environment. My students are talented, intelligent artists that want to learn and are fun to teach. We always have a blast together! I will be back in 2022. Stay tuned for the schedule.
SAS: Any advice for those beginning their artistic careers?
MM: Yes! Just paint. Do whatever you need to make that happen for at least a year or two. It’s crucial to know what your inspired by and why, how to use visual language to communicate your unique vision and what medium best conveys your personal expression. Owning your authentic voice, acquiring technical facility and knowing how you want to show up as an artist allows you to confidently talk about your work. You are your best marketing tool. —
Visit www.scottsdaleartschool.org for more information on the school and its upcoming workshops.