We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Amy Keever. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Amy below.
Hi Amy, thanks for joining us today. I’m sure there have been days where the challenges of being an artist or creative force you to think about what it would be like to just have a regular job. When’s the last time you felt that way? Did you have any insights from the experience?
Becoming an artist to me is a series of knowing yourself deeper and deeper, and there are definitely times where you can get discouraged… but I cannot imagine doing anything but art once I really committed to it fulltime. I spent many years with doubt and feeling like an imposter, but I had a very spiritual experience when I quit my fulltime job as a single mom to pursue my dreams! You feel like an imposter because you truly are doing something that’s never been done before. You are creating art that doesn’t exist in the world and even after I started working as an artist fulltime, I was still having moments where I let fear in and created work that was not leaning into the most intimate parts of myself. Every year though I learned more about what makes me come alive and more importantly I learned to tune out the outside world and realize just as Rick Rubin says, “In honor of the audience, the audience comes last”, meaning, the best work will come when you are only trying to make yourself happy with the art. Art and creating art fill me with such joy imbued with love and fostering mentorship to others. I want to encourage other artists to never give up on their dreams and remind them that it is those daily minute decisions that will lead to their greatest gains. On my hardest days I would literally wish for some encouragement, requesting that something come my way to keep me going and it always did! The power of manifesting is real!
Amy, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I am an artist with a passion for sculpting and painting. My glass medium of choice is what sets me apart, using fine Italian glasses from Murano Italy. They are exquisite mosaic smalti that capture the light and bring my creations to life. Each sculpture and painting I craft is a labor of love, a reflection of the person it’s made for. I take the time to truly understand my clients, diving deep into their stories and memories. With every piece of glass I place, I weave their essence into the art, making it not just a work of art, but a deeply sentimental treasure. But my art isn’t just about creating beautiful works of art, it’s also about fostering creativity in others. That’s why I devote myself to mentoring young art students, sharing my skills and knowledge with encouragement. My gallery is more than just a showcase of my work; it’s a sanctuary of love and creativity. Each piece tells a story, not just of the subject it depicts, but of the connections forged through art and expression.
As visitors wander through my gallery, I hear from them that they can feel the warmth and emotion coming from each piece which blesses me! It’s as if I’m surrounded by the very essence of human connection, a reminder of the beauty and the depth of the human experience which is so important to me.
Through my art, I hope to spread joy and inspiration, touching the hearts of all who encounter it. In my gallery and when working on my art, I find my own sense of fulfillment and purpose, knowing that my work brings light and meaning into the world!
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
For me, having emotional safety is essential to creating heartfelt works. It’s about creating a space where I feel free to explore my deepest emotions without fear or judgement or rejection. This emotional sanctuary allows me to tap into my authenticity, infusing my art with the genuine feelings and experiences. When I feel emotionally safe, I can create works that truly resonate with both myself and others on a profound level.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
As an artist, one of the most rewarding aspects for me is the deeply spiritual experience I feel when I create. It’s like tapping into something much larger than myself, a force that guides my creativity and inspires me to contribute to the greater good. I see myself as just a conduit for the muse, channeling its energy into my art. Being able to express myself artistically and connect with others on a deeper level feels incredibly fulfilling almost like a spiritual journey where I’m not just creating art, but also becoming a part of something greater than myself.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.amykeever.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amykeevergallery/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amykeevergallery/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-keever-gallery-593706218
Image Credits
photographs by Meredith Mashburn