Blogs

Carolyn Newberger

What are we doing; Where are we going? Mixed media

What are your earliest memories of being artistic?  My most vivid memories are of elementary school, where I had paper and pencil always at hand.  I drew whenever I could get away with it, making designs and drawings furtively while I should have been paying attention to the teacher.

When did art become a pursuit?  By the time I was in fifth grade, I put more time into cover drawings for assignments than I did in the assignments.

Are you self-taught or formally educated in visual art?  I was fortunate to be selected for a public art enrichment program at the Carnegie Library in Pittsburgh from 7- 10th grade.  After a hiatus of many years, I began studying again at age 63, taking courses and workshops.

How did you first become involved with CAA?  A friend told me about CAA and I joined and began entering shows about 15 years ago.

Yuja Wang at Ozawa Hall, Pastel on toned paper

In what other ways are you involved in the local art community?  I am represented by Galatea Fine Arts in Boston’s South End, and show my work in Berkshires galleries as well.  Living in the Berkshires, I am on the board of the Berkshire Art Association, and write and illustrate music and dance reviews for The Berkshire Edge, an on line newspaper of art and ideas.

What medium do you currently work in and how did you choose this medium?  Much of my work is in watercolor and I’m a signature member of the New England Watercolor Society.  I also work in collage and mixed media, and, of course, I draw, especially in performances that I review, often with my musician husband, Eli.

What is your creative process? Where are you finding ideas for your art these days?  Ideas are everywhere.  My current project is capturing the wonders of the forest, where I walk almost every day with my little dog, Lily.

How do you choose your subject matter? Is there a reoccurring theme that carries throughout your work?  My subject matter chooses me.

Autumn Ferns with Red and Yellow Mushrooms, Watercolor

In your opinion, what’s your best/favorite piece you’ve made?  The good news about collage is that I can take less favorite pieces and turn them into favorite pieces.

What is one of your artistic goals?  Keep being excited about what I see, whether it’s turkey tail mushrooms scalloping up a log or a Mary Cassatt in a private collection in Washington DC.

What’s your favorite place to see art?  In the forest.  Nature is an amazing artist.

What living artists are you inspired by?  Joel Janowitz, Tom Ouellett, Gerry Bergstein, all wonderful artists who keep working and teaching despite the difficulties and happenstance of fame and fortune.

Do you own any art by other artists?  Of course!

Do you have any shows coming up?  Becket Arts Center, July, 2019

SEE MORE CAROLYN!

Website:  www.carolynnewberger.com

Facebook:  Carolyn Newberger