We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Colette Cosentino. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Colette below.
Alright, Colette thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?
On taking a risk: It is a risk in itself to throw oneself into the art of making art, and expecting to make a living from the craft. However, to be truly fulfilled, happy, and energized, a person MUST do what they were created for. To purposefully veer from the course and get a job that doesn’t have meaning to the individual, is a sort of silent and slow death. A safe choice, yes. And some people must. The risk of being an artist for a living, wearing all the hats, truly is not for everyone. Sometimes the safe choice is the only choice for some. But for me, after a dozen jobs in this field and that, I found depth of purpose and true joy in creating art. No, it has not always paid off financially, and yes, its a long game. And yes, sometimes I have had to get work doing this or that to support my art habit. But in the end, I took the plunge, and never looked back. Take every opportunity. Do not despise small opportunities. Take the risk. I ride the waves, buckle down, and enjoy the freedom.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
In the pursuit of a creative life, one must embrace risk-taking, have faith, and bravely expose their heart and passion to the world. Sharing one’s creations is a vulnerable endeavor, with the hope that others will not only connect with the work but also embrace it as their own, integrating it into their lives and environments.
My artistic journey is deeply rooted in childhood experiences and observations. Growing up in the rural landscapes of Iowa, I absorbed the diverse influences brought by my parents’ worldly friendships. Memories of intricate handcrafted items from various cultures, like the rich purple hues of an embroidered sari or the elaborate motifs adorning artifacts from the Middle East, Asia, and Europe, left an indelible mark on my subconscious.
My formal education at the Art Institute of Colorado in Denver laid the foundation for my exploration into graphic design and illustration. However, it was my move to Santa Barbara, California, that truly ignited my creative spirit. Surrounded by the stunning architecture, landscapes, and the eclectic community of Santa Barbara, I found boundless inspiration.
In 2018, I realized a lifelong dream by opening my own art studio and gallery in the vibrant arts district, just a stone’s throw away from the esteemed Santa Barbara Museum of Art. Nestled within an architectural gem, my studio has become a haven for creativity to flourish.
Every day, I revel in the process of bringing my visions to life, whether through large-scale paintings or intricate projects. My studio is a sanctuary where I can freely explore and create, surrounded by an array of artful treasures, from paintings to ceramics to vintage finds.
Sharing this journey with my husband, fellow artist Peter Horjus, who runs his own shop nearby, has been a source of immense joy and camaraderie. Together, we recently welcomed a playful kitten into our lives, who now happily resides in my studio, adding an extra dose of charm to our creative haven.
In this ever-evolving adventure, my aim is to offer a unique and soulful experience to those who seek art that resonates deeply and captivates the imagination. Each brushstroke, each creation, is infused with love and passion, inviting others to embark on a journey of discovery and delight.
Thank you for coming along on the journey, Colette
bio 2024 Colette Cosentino is a visionary artist whose work transcends conventional boundaries, inviting
viewers into a realm where imagination and reality intertwine.
Drawing inspiration from the world around her, Colette’s art captures the essence of the human
experience with a unique blend of color, texture, and emotion. Her eclectic style fuses elements
of surrealism, abstract expressionism, and contemporary art, resulting in captivating pieces that
resonate on both a visceral and intellectual level.
With a keen eye for detail and a relentless pursuit of perfection, Colette approaches each creation
as a journey of self-discovery, pushing the boundaries of her own creativity with every
brushstroke. Her work reflects a profound understanding of the human psyche, delving into
themes of identity, spirituality, and the interconnectedness of all things.
In a notable collaboration with Schumacher, Colette unveiled a stunning wallpaper collection
that translates her distinctive artistic vision into immersive interior spaces. Infused with her
signature style, these wallpapers transform walls into vibrant canvases, bringing a touch of
artistic flair to any environment.
Throughout her career, Colette has garnered acclaim for her bold experimentation and fearless
innovation, earning recognition from critics and collectors alike. The work captivates audiences
with its raw energy and undeniable presence.
As she continues to push the boundaries of her own creativity, Colette remains steadfast in her
commitment to exploring the infinite possibilities of the artistic journey, inviting audiences to
join her on a voyage of discovery through the boundless landscape of the human imagination.
Colette resides and creates amidst the picturesque surroundings of Santa Barbara, California,
alongside her renowned artist husband, Peter Horjus.
Have you ever had to pivot?
In 2016 I had attempted to be a real estate agent, as my creative work was not cutting it. It was a miserable year. I quit, and decided to put all effort once again in being a full time artist. I was painting and creating at my kitchen table. I had started posting my small confectionary gift size paintings on instagram, and it had garnered the attention of a local event planner’s party shop. She offered to show them in her shop. I noticed among her posts, that she was involved in putting on the gala fund raising event for a place called Lotusland. I brought my paintings over to her shop, and unveiled them in a vintage suitcase. I then asked her how I could contribute my skills for the upcoming gala event. As it turned out, the Japanese Garden was under construction, and an unsightly chainlink fence is what would be greeting guests at the gala in their fancy dress. She asked if I could paint a mural the length of the fence, which ended up being just over 430 feet x 10 ft high. I had 28 days to paint it. Through a series of fortunate events, I was able to beautifully complete the work and have it hung over the fencing just a day or two before the event.
The best part, after the event, the mural stayed up for a time, and the creative director for Schumacher (fine fabrics and wallcoverings) visited Lotusland and saw my work. She called me up and said, “This would make great wallpaper!
It was life changing. My first collection has been a great success and my second collection will launch in Spring 2025.
Sometimes you just need to ask for the opportunity.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The freedom. And when I say freedom I don’t mean I am lazy. Both my artist husband and I work very hard. Long hours, sometimes to exhaustion. But it is our choice to do so. It is greatly fulfilling work and we would have it no other way. We have freedom in our choice, in our time off, in how we use the hours of the day. It’s divine.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ColetteCosentino.com
- Instagram: @colettecosentinoatelier
- Facebook: @colettecosentinoatelier
Image Credits
Chris Orwig
Trinity Wheeler