We recently connected with Tina Weitz and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Tina thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

One of my first jobs many years ago, after getting married and moving, was with a company in California that specialized in architectural advertising. The company was growing by leaps and bounds and I found myself constantly taking on many new aspects for my position. I prepared and proofed ad copy, selected images for production and worked closely with staff photographers. When it was time for my departure I was offered a job as a photographer. I was stunned! I had no formal training. The owner of the company explained he saw in me a creative eye and that photography was mechanics and having “an eye” was what made an image a photograph. After training with staff photographers, I started working in Austin, Texas as a commercial photographer.

As I worked over the next 20 plus years on locations of the finest homes available, I began taking images for myself of interesting aspects to the area where I was traveling. I loved choosing my own subject matter and working in black and white film. Then I found alternative processes, falling in love with the feeling added to images through plastic cameras, alternative films such as Polaroid using old SX70 cameras. As advertising began to change with the availability of digital cameras, I left commercial photography behind and embraced the new photography alternatives I found. I joined a group of creative women sharing studio space.

Tina, 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?

My own artistic endeavors started growing when I wanted affordable art studio space in Austin, Texas – which was difficult to find. City growth was pushing out smaller businesses for large tech companies. So I took a deep breath and decided to start an art gallery and rent smaller spaces to artists. After several years, rent once again took its toll. I found a small space for myself in a printmaking and art studio/gallery complex. This move changed the trajectory of my art.

My time there gave me the opportunity to grow over the next five years. To learn about all types of art, galleries and cooperative endeavors. I left my studio space and opened a photography gallery, Photomethode, hosting some of the best photographers from throughout the United States. I began creating photogravures with the printmaking facility on location. I learned through time and processes that my true photographic expressions were conveyed through two mediums: photogravures (printmaking) and Polaroid photography (using) vintage SX70 cameras. Then the next shoe dropped, the building was to be sold and torn down for urban multi-level condominiums.

Two years passed, I moved out of the now too expensive city and was certain I no longer artistically had a place to belong. In 2019, a phone call came. A master printer friend that was also studio displaced offered me a chance to be part of her printmaking community/studio, www.creeksidestudioatx.com. I am still working with that studio today, creating photogravures from my image captures. I feel like I have found “home” again, and my true art calling.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

Being an artist is a difficult journey. You must be your own advocate, motivation, inspiration and resource. Many of us will never gain what one calls success or financial stability. But to work in what you truly love to do, that is priceless. Somehow you find a way.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

Bottom line, buy art! Ask for a payment plan if necessary. Show your encouragement and community support by going to art venues and events. Even if you cannot afford an artwork, let the artist know what draws you to their work and explore the meaning within. Living with and viewing original art you love will enrich your life.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.tinaweitz.com
• Instagram: tinaweitzphotography
• Facebook: Tina Weitz Photography