Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Rhia Hurt. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Rhia, appreciate you joining us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?
Making artwork and expressing visual ideas has been part of my creative process from an early age. I found that when I had the opportunity to merge my artistic work with a professional path, I felt more connected and inspired professionally.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I am an artist working with sculpture, installation art, and paintings. My primary focus involves using a variety of materials, color relationships and form to make abstract artwork that relates to phenomenon and experiences in nature, as well as on the balance of ecosystems. I make artwork for myself, collectors, clients, and sometimes with art consultants who commission projects for private and public spaces.
My artwork has evolved over many years experimenting with color, mark making, materials and multiples. I am proud of the positive reception of my artwork in a variety of settings and institutions both locally and worldwide. For example, multiple commissions for clients such as UCSF Mission Bay Hospital, and Tiffany & Co. I am also proud of having been invited as a member of an organization started in the 1930’s called American Abstract Artists.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding aspects of being an artist is the freedom to experiment, use my imagination and express ideas visually. I am a teacher as well, and I often tell my students that in art there isn’t one right answer. Part of the process for me, is to explore until I am satisfied with the resulting imagery, or form. Because I derive inspiration from nature, I do research by taking long walks in different environments– by the ocean, in the woods, or mountains. I draw, arrange objects, or mix colors based on what I notice on these walks.. Making art is a way to give back by appreciating the natural world around me.
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
Because my professional background includes running a nonprofit art space, as well as teaching in public schools and universities, I believe artists (and all people) need quality arts education and access to the arts. Young people can be exposed and still they don’t have to become professional artists themselves. Students of all ages can learn so much about the world through interpreting, creating, and analyzing artworks (including music, theater, and dance)..
Contact Info:
- Website: rhia-hurt.com
- Instagram: @rhiahurt
Image Credits
Liz Sanders, Biviana Sanchez