We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Gina Gaetz. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Gina below.

Hi Gina , thanks for joining us today. What’s been one of the most interesting investments you’ve made – and did you win or lose? (Note, these responses are only intended as entertainment and shouldn’t be construed as investment advice)

The best investment I made last year was to take a month away from my regular life and live in Joshua Tree, California. I was accepted as an artist in residence at a small property in Yucca Valley and spent the month painting in an attached garage studio, exploring the National Park, writing in my journal, and paying attention to the world around me. The time alone and in the beautifully expansive space of the desert was truly life changing. I was inspired every day and really felt connected to myself and my art in ways I hadn’t been. It was an investment of time and money into myself and my art practice, but it was absolutely worth it. I hope to do it again someday.

Gina , 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 am an abstract painter working in acrylics, inks, and mixed materials on canvas and paper. My art practice is a journey inward to a space of discovery, trust, trial, and error. I use a layered painting process, adapting and responding to color and textures as the pieces form, shift, and develop. My work is unplanned and the composition and color palette reveals itself to me as I continue layering.. I am inspired by nature, memories, nostalgia, and the connections we have within ourselves, one another, and the world around us.

I am based in Minneapolis, MN and have been painting for about 10 years. I have a beautiful studio space in an old building and a strong community of fellow artists in my neighborhood. I am drawn to abstract painting because it gives every viewer an opportunity to see something different in the work and relate it to their own personal memories, context, and feelings.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

One thing I appreciate the most about my lifestyle is the flexibility that it offers to me. I love being able to have a slow morning at home, work in my garden, and take my time with things that are important to me. I create my own hours and my own priorities. There is no one asking about my productivity or holding me accountable (which can be challenging at times), and I have control over my life. It is a freeing feeling. I also love the community of talented and amazing artists that I get to call my “coworkers.” We are all on these varying paths and finding our own routines, but we connect on so many levels and can be there for one another when things get challenging.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

I think that many people still believe artistic and creative careers are “easy” and non essential. There can be judgement from this chosen path and an assumption that you cant make a living from selling your art. I think in order for creatives and artist to thrive in society, the importance of art has to be acknowledged. Companies should seek out local artist for collaborations, prioritize original art, and include creatives on conversations of community building, event planning, branding, etc. Pay artists for their work, and understand that art is vital to our communities and the wellness of society.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.ginagaetz.com
• Instagram: gina.gaetz.art