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

Hi Sarah, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

The most meaningful project I’ve worked on is Chiaroscuro Chronicles, a capstone exhibition supported by a SEMAC Artist grant. This project culminates in a public event at Rochester Beacon Academy, a charter high school, where I’ll unveil 12 original paintings that fuse the drama of Italian Renaissance art with the mood and mystery of Film Noir.

The concept was born from my fascination with chiaroscuro—how light and shadow reveal emotional depth—and my desire to explore it through a contemporary lens. With the SEMAC grant, I was able to push my artistic boundaries, blending historical technique with cinematic storytelling to create an immersive experience for students and the community.

This project is especially meaningful because it bridges my personal creative growth with public engagement. Working with the school gives me insight into how young people interpret visual narratives and art. SEMAC’s support allowed me to take a significant step forward artistically and in my career as an artist.

Chiaroscuro Chronicles is a reflection of how art can be both personal and publicly impactful.

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

I’m an oil painter based in southeastern Minnesota, drawn to storytelling through dramatic light, rich color, and layered symbolism. I began painting seriously after studying theology, where I fell in love with the complexity of art in historic religious relics and representation. My work often blends classical techniques with contemporary themes, offering collectors pieces that spark thought, feeling or just frivolity. What sets my work apart is my commitment to craft and narrative—each painting is built to last and layered with meaning. I’m devoted to the art and philosophy of oil painting. I want viewers to feel inspired through my art.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

Non-creatives may struggle to understand how much time, solitude, and emotional energy art requires. It can look self-indulgent from the outside—spending hours chasing a vision only I can see. Even I wrestle with the guilt of that. But I’ve learned that creating isn’t selfish—it’s a form of service. Art helps people feel, reflect, and connect in ways words alone can’t. The inner work we do becomes outwardly meaningful. So while the journey may seem personal, it’s ultimately for everyone.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

To truly support artists and a thriving creative ecosystem, society needs to include of art in everyday life. People can take the time to learn about art—its history, context, and process. The more we understand, the more deeply we can engage with creative work and the people who make it. Curiosity leads to connection, and that connection is what sustains both artists and the communities they serve.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://sarahvanassemiles.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahvanassemiles/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarahvanassemiles/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-vanasse-miles-99a32892/