Bette Ann Libby
Mariposa Dancers, Ceramic Shard Mosaic
What are your earliest memories of being artistic? I loved to draw as a child and to take photos. My grandfather was a photographer and painter. My mother was a silver smith/jewelry maker.
When did art become a pursuit? In college tried multiple mediums, became a graphic artist after college and then a potter when I lived in Samoa!
Are you self-taught or formally educated in visual art? Both.
How did you first become involved with CAA? Met artists through Women’s Caucus for art in 1986. Entered the prize show and won a prize!
Bella Luna, Ceramic Shard Mosaic
In what other ways are you involved in the local art community? Founded Studios Without Walls now in our 20th year of site specific sculpture in Brookline and Newton. A free “museum” visited by thousands over the years. I have led workshops in mosaics and created many community mosaics as permanent installations in public buildings and at Boston Childrens Hospital .
What role do you think the artist plays in society? Making art make people happy. Looking at art is an escape from reality and helps with well being.
What medium do you currently work in and how did you choose this medium? I currently work in ceramic shard mosaics as well as other out door media like MRI film sculptures and now working with bubble wrap for the Studios Without Walls 2019 exhibition “Reverberations”. I had many broken shards from being a potter. Bubble wrap came from having a house disaster and had to move out! MRI films came from recovering relatives in crisis.
What is your creative process? Where are you finding ideas for your art these days? I love to tell stories or my own mythology through image making. I love transforming nature into sculpture and transporting the viewer to another plane.
How do you choose your subject matter? Is there a reoccurring theme that carries throughout your work? My recurring themes are empowerment, movement, and fantasy through story telling.
Girl VS Gust, Ceramic Shard Mosaic with Handblown Glass
In your opinion, what’s your best/favorite piece you’ve made? Usually it is the piece I am working on at the moment!
The “Yestermorrow” wall in Waitsfield, VT is one i am very proud of.
What is one of your artistic goals? To keep making art. Making art completes me, calms me and makes me happy.
What’s your favorite place to see art? My favorite place to see art is each Spring at Studios Without Walls at Riverway Park in Brookline.
What living artists are you inspired by? All the artists of Studios Without Walls, Yayoi Kusama, Ai Wei Wei.
Do you own any art by other artists? Yes. Many & mostly by my artist friends.
Do you have any shows coming up?
CAA Member Prize Show. University Place
Studios Without Walls: Reverberations
April 27-June 2nd, Brookline
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