Mary-Kate Parkhurst
Q & A
Where did you grow up? Born in Florida, lived overseas for a bit, grew up mostly in Virginia, then relocated to Boston for college and stayed within Massachusetts when I graduated.
In a few sentences, tell us about your artwork. (Ie. medium(s), a specific series, underlying themes/ interests etc.) I work in a few mediums, my favorite lately has been digital. I take portrait commissions, illustration, and graphic design. My main goal is to make art more accessible through creating fun and meaningful images. I love using bright color palettes and simplistic imagery. My illustrative work comes from my day to day life in hopes that others can find solidarity in the everyday.
What inspired you to begin teaching? I’m not sure if there was an exact moment. I just slowly fell into it throughout college and realized it felt very natural to be in a teaching role.
What is your favorite part about being an instructor in the arts? My favorite part is when someone gets as excited about making as I do!
What do you hope people walk away with after a class with you? That they leave with a widened perspective on how to develop their art.
Who do you look to for inspiration or as a mentor? (Artists, administrators, public figures?) Matisse, Picasso, and Bonnard inspire my work the most. The women in my life who also run small business keep me motivated. My parents, of course, are the ultimate inspiration.
Why do you think the arts are important? I think the arts are important because it helps us digest the events in our lives.
Where is your favorite place to see art? The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Do you own art by other artists? Absolutely! I own work from all my friends.
SEE MORE FROM MARY-KATE!
Website: www.marykateparkhurstart.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marykateparkhurst/