We were lucky to catch up with Beth Hyatt recently and have shared our conversation below.

Beth, appreciate you joining us today. Alright – so having the idea is one thing, but going from idea to execution is where countless people drop the ball. Can you talk to us about your journey from idea to execution?

For many years, I have consistently carried a camera to capture images that serve as references for my paintings. I utilize these photos, along with tools like Photoshop and Procreate, to develop my artwork.

Last summer, my son introduced me to MidJourney, suggesting it might be something I would enjoy. He was right—I am thoroughly captivated! My enthusiasm for exploring and painting using AI-generated imagery has only grown.

When creating images, I begin by inputting descriptive prompts to generate references. This process is somewhat analogous to using a camera; it often involves sifting through numerous photos to find one that truly excites me. While I rely on AI to produce these images, I selectively incorporate elements from them, modifying and reinterpreting them to craft my own unique paintings.

I have always had a profound fascination with faces, whether human or animal. This is evident on my website, where nearly every painting features a face as the focal point.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I grew up in Jacksonville, Illinois.Drawing and dancing was always my passions plus i played the violin until I moved to Chicago. I was 18 when I moved to Chicago where I became the top fashion model working with Victor Skrebneski. I was featured in many national magazines and covers as well as the James Bond Playboy cover in 1965.
In 1988 Diane Pryde and I co-founded “Model Image Center”. She maintained the business when I moved to Arizona in 2002.
I was still modeling until I moved to Phoenix. Still getting calls form my agencies for jobs but I wanted to do something else.
I remodeled my first residence in Phoenix to my personal taste, including putting in a whole outside kitchen and dinning area. This gave me the idea to start purchasing homes to rehab. My Father being a carpenter, I would always say, “I learned just enough from him to get in trouble”. I put together a two man crew and myself to rehab two homes and a condo. Rented them out and later sold them.
My kids would ask me “what is your next project mom or what wall are you taking down?” If I told them there has something more to do. They would replay ” Good, we’re not moving yet”.
In 2004 I got back into my art when a friend wanted me to join her for a session of drawing classes. The art teacher said to draw a tree. I knew how to a tree. He advised against drawing faces, deeming them too difficult. I had a photo of my son and began sketching his face before class started. After that he allowed me draw what ever I wanted. Which were faces.
I was eager to learn more and I decided to try to painting. I found a wonderful teacher at the Scottsdale park district. Not knowing what brushes and paints to use, she easily guided me through the basics. My teacher said.”if you can draw, you can paint” and so I did.
,In 2009 I applied for the “Arizona Fine Art Expo” and to my surprise I art was accepted. Expo has been a supportive community that feels like a second family. I will be showcasing my work there in 2025.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The rewarding aspects of Learning and striving for excellence in any task is inspiring. The sense of accomplishment comes from achieving your goals. When you see a smile on someones face, as they appreciate your art, It’s a powerful reminder of the positive impact of art. Art, in all its forms, adds beauty and meaning to our lives.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

Starting at the age of five,I took dancing lessons and was a dance teacher throughout my high school years. I taught ballet, tap and modern jazz. During the summer we would have recitals around the state fairs. My Mother wanted me to open my own dance studio but I felt there were other adventures out there. I will go into a wonderful place when drawing, At the age of 16, I sent some of my drawing to an art school and got a scholarship. I would have been the youngest person there but my parents couldn’t afford the remaining expenses. It was a disappointment at the time.
I moved to Chicago after graduating high school and had a wonderful career in the fashion world. I was learning so many new things. It was a little frighting but also very exciting.
In 1988 we opened Model Image Center. Collaborating with the modeling agencies in helping to developing new models, working with pageant coaches and eventually stared to photographing composites for models, head shots for actors, singer for their front albums and getting into the business world with people like realtors or anyone who needed a good head hot for their work. We set the business up so if either one had a modeling job, the other partner could take care of Model Image Center. I modeled until I moved to Arizona at 2002.
My next change was renovating homes. Like a mechanic loves tinkering with cars. I love to transforming homes to show their best potential. Over the years and in Chicago, I would help friends with their decorating projects.
In2004 I decided to get back into drawing and remembered the joy of creating visual art.
2009 I thought I would take another leap and submit my art to Arizona Fine Art Expo. If you don’t try, you’ll never know. To my surprise they liked you art and was excepted. This was so exciting. I’ve shown my work there up to this time and will be there in 2025.

Contact Info:

• Website: bethhyattart.com
• Instagram: bethhyattart
• Facebook: bethhyattart
• Youtube: Beth Hyatt

Image Credits
Beth Hyatt I own the images