We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Hunter Strutton a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hunter, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you share a story about the kindest thing someone has done for you and why it mattered so much or was so meaningful to you?
I started as a biology major with an art minor at ETSU. When taking Introduction to Painting, my professor gave me a canvas and told me to drop my biology major and become a full-time art student because that is where I belong. Her honesty and encouragement were revolutionary to me. Although I continued as a Biology major, I added Fine Art as a second major, and it was the best decision I made—all thanks to Mira.
Hunter, 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 graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Art from East Tennessee State University. The education I received and the encouragement from my professors are what got me motivated and passionate to make my art. I have an affinity for jewelry design, metalsmithing, and oil painting. I make work based on my experience growing up queer in southern Appalachia. However, I am also open to making custom pieces for clients that sing to their souls and allow me to continue expressing my creativity.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
I am currently considering getting my Masters in Fine Art with a focus in jewelry and metals. However, the overall goal is to be in a position where I get to create work that I am passionate about. I would love to be a self-employed artist, but would also enjoy being a professor.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the process of working on a piece. The excitement of looking at the finished result is incredible, but it is the experience of frustration, bewilderment, engineering, passion, and serial moments of joy that occur along the way that make you realize that the finished result is so much more enticing.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ghstrutton.wixsite.com/hunter-strutton-art
- Instagram: hstruttonart
- Other: Etsy: HunterandGatherArt
