Artist Profile: Isabel Kidd - Multimedia Artist and Photographer
My name is Isabel Kidd and I am a British American born and raised in Lynchburg, VA. I’m a self-taught multimedia artist/photographer and finally started up my small business a couple of years ago-Isabel Kidd Art. Though I love creating with anything I can get my hands on, recently I’ve been enjoying making drip-pour paintings, abstract paintings, dioramas, and resin/clay/wire jewelry.
Instagram: @IsabelKiddArt
Email: Ixxy.Co@gmail.com
WHEN DID YOU KNOW YOU WANTED TO BE AN ARTIST?
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been making art and tinkering! At this point, it feels like that’s all I know and at every ebb and flow in my life, it all comes back to art. That being said, it wasn’t until about three years ago that it clicked for me that this is not just what I want to do, but rather what I need to do.
HOW DOES YOUR PERSONAL STORY/BACKGROUND INFLUENCE YOUR WORK?
I’m partial to dabbling in a little bit of everything as all styles and mediums fascinate me. My work orbits around my ever-evolving interests and disposition at the time of creating a piece. I also like to pull from memories and feelings, so creating is a means of release for my mental illnesses. Some of my subject matter/colour palettes can be dark and ominous in theme, thus making it harder for some viewers to consume. It’s natural to experience the full array of emotions though! In the end, I just want to fully connect with others through art by being raw and genuine.
WHICH OF YOUR WORKS ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?
That would be a piece I've not made yet, but one that made me feel good was the storm drain I painted in Wyndhurst for ArtStorm. It was the first time I put myself out there creatively and also the first time others were really able to see my art in progress. That was a vulnerable feeling, leaving it so open for critique, but overall it was an experience I’m very grateful for! If the message painted helps one person change their behaviours or perspectives on the flora and fauna of Earth, then I’m truly a happier person.
Isabel Kidd
Isabel Kidd
Isabel Kidd
Isabel Kidd
WHAT IS THE HARDEST PART ABOUT BEING A PROFESSIONAL ARTIST?
The trope about the struggling artist is no joke! Generally, art supplies are temporary and recurring purchases-not to mention costly. Many artists are hit with obstacles when having a small budget. Without the monetary ability to promote online or in person, one can struggle to find an audience and make sales too. The path for plenty of low-income artists is rough to tread, but the results can lead to wonderful creations too. Adversity pressures one to think beyond the boundaries given, and this is exactly how DIY methods can be born.
WHO ARE OTHER ARTISTS THAT INSPIRE YOU?
That’s an easy answer, but also the longest. Every artist! I like to think the arts are like the universe expressing itself through us. This sharing of creative consciousness and desire to actualize meaning in life is precisely why all artists inspire me. I think concept art is one of my favourite methods for interpreting that. Ai Weiwei is an incredible artist whose work and protest pieces have long enlightened me. I’ve also come to love the Mbuti people's music and art. Artists paint and conceptualize the sights, sounds, and moods of the Ituri forest onto barkcloth. This, along with their use of organic and geometric forms/patterns, is truly a beautiful thing. A lot of my more abstract pieces have been steeped in inspiration from the Mbuti people.
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR YOUNG OR ASPIRING ARTISTS?
Something I think most artists struggle with is doubting themselves and their skills too harshly. A little doubt is useful to keep yourself balanced, but too much and it’s a nasty cycle to get caught up in. When you find yourself wanting to give up, just remember that practice makes progress. Any improvement, even in the smallest capacity, is better than none!
