We were lucky to catch up with Ann Guidera-matey recently and have shared our conversation below.
Ann, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s jump back to the first dollar you earned as a creative? What can you share with us about how it happened?
I stayed home with my kids when they were little. During their nap times, I would paint. I did this for about a year or two and also took art lessons at the local art center.. One fall I took three paintings to a local gift shop/gallery and they were accepted. I thought if the paintings did not sell by Thanksgiving, I would gift them to friends and family for Christmas. When I went to pick up the paintings, One large piece had sold. That was 40 years ago and i can still remember the feelings of surprise, pride and excitement. I was ecstatic I remember thinking that someone buying a painting of mine was better than sex.
I called my husband and told him, ” Quit his day job. i just made $200.” Needless to say we still kept our day jobs and raised kids. I continued to painting and taking lessons during that time and eight years ago when i retired started painting and selling my work full time
Ann, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I paint vibrant yet serene landscapes that invite you to pause take a deep breath and savor the moment.
Finding balance in my life as always been a challenge – work vs. play, me vs others, and acceptance vs defiance. Nature is the best medicine for me. A sunset or field of wildflowers forces me to slow down, forget the to do list and put life in perspective. Nature’s beauty opens my heart and nurtures my soul. My work is an invitation to replenish your spirit and feel thee gratitude and wonder in the world around you.
Pastel is my primary medium and I love its immediacy, vibrant colors ,and its ability to capture glowing light..
I have been working with pastels for approximately 35 years. Favorite places of inspiration include the Eastern Shore of Maryland, the New Jersey Shore, the Brandywine River Valley, Hudson, New York and Maine or anyplace that can be seen from my kayak or while hiking.
I have raised three amazing humans, am nuts about two grandchildren and maintain good relationships with all my nine siblings. My husband of 42 years is still my best friend. Family has always been my priority. I have a studio at Aston Mills Arts in Aston PA where I paint and am open for appointment throughout the year. You can contact me through my website or follow me on instagram @annguideramatey
Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?
I ‘ve had a studio in a restored mill with 30 other artists and artisans for 17 years. I’d paint and sell my work there while still working the day job. I’d sell enough to cover the rent. . In 2020 during lock down, I got involved with a community of Artists online, now called the Art Room. It is run by an artist and certified Life /Business coach in Phoenixville PA, Teresa Haag. I’ve learned how to talk about my art, figure out my “magic message” or my “why” I paint what I paint. I’ve learned who “my people”are .and how to reach them. I’ve learned to take risks and that people want to hear from me. Working with Teresa, and this group of artists.has been an amazing experience..
Alright – so here’s a fun one. What do you think about NFTs?
I have not interest in them. I think that NFTs are silly.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://AnnGuideraMatey.com
- Instagram: @annguideramatey
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AGMPastels/
Image Credits
Ann Guidera-Matey