Today we’d like to introduce you to Catherine Moore

Hi Catherine, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?

I’ve always been interested in art. I guess since I was old enough to hold a pen, a pencil, a crayon, or whatever, I wanted to do something in a creative field. I remember being fascinated by Disney animated films and wanting to work at the animation studio. But I was equally mesmerized by the Muppets and would have been thrilled to work with Jim Henson once upon a time.

I loved looking at the artwork in children’s books and ended up pursuing Illustration when I went to art school. I had a minor in children’s book illustration and also took some electives in animation. But neither of those avenues really panned out. I just don’t believe I was as good as a lot of my peers at the time. I’m not saying that to be down on myself, it’s just reality. I know as artists we tend to shy away from the “c-word” (competition), but there is a competitive nature in the art world – especially when it comes to commercial illustration and/or working in animation.

I did have several illustration gigs over the years and did graphic design for various local clients. Nothing huge, but I eventually was encouraged by a close friend and talented artist to apply to galleries. I had never pictured myself showing work in galleries, but I took the opportunity, and have been working with galleries for the past 13 years. I continue to get occasional illustration work, and I’m beginning to branch out to doing art markets that have shown to be a great way to get my work in front of new collectors. I think opening up yourself to several different avenues of selling your work is the best way to make it as artist these days.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?

I don’t know if any artist has a “smooth road” – a few, maybe. But I think there will always be challenges. That’s the nature of the beast, not only as an artist but in life in general.

I’ve struggled with the things I think most artists struggle with – getting work. imposter syndrome, time management/work-life balance, etc. All of these things have taken time and trial and error to work through. I think I’m handling it better now. I calendar out my year as far in advance as possible. I do my best not to over schedule myself – I don’t always succeed, but I’ve improved. Having and building an art community is so important. I would not be where I am without the support and encouragement of my fellow artists, friends, and family.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?

Let’s see I’ve worn several hats in my career including that of gallery artist, illustrator, art instructor, and even podcast co-host (which I’m still currently doing). I really mostly paint for galleries, but I do vend at a few art markets throughout the year.

I usually paint in oils, though sometimes I do work in acrylic or mixed media involving watercolor and ink. My work explores the magic and mystery of what we do not yet understand, and blends it with the beauty of what is proven and tangible. I love incorporating narrative elements and I often add symbolism and dark humor to pieces. Like many people, I am inspired by pop culture, but I also draw from myth and folklore. I like focusing on themes of the supernatural, imagination. and the ethereal nature of life.

If we are referring to my chosen career, I may be most proud of the fact that I am still here, working, surviving, and pushing through the ups and downs of living life as a working artist. I’m pretty proud of the fact that I took the risk of pursuing a path that is not always for the faint hearted. Even when we talk about my personal life, I’m probably most proud of my perseverance – I may get knocked down, but it’s never for long.

I paint what interests me at any given time, and I hope to connect to the viewer in a way that makes them think, feel nostalgia, or even giggle a bit. I don’t know if that makes me different from other artists out there, but I hope to reach my audience by sharing how I see the world through my art.

Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?

• Fight for what is important to you – for the world you want to live in.
• Encourage others as much as you are able.
• Tell your people you love them often.
• And practice kindness, not just for others, but for yourself.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://TeaAndCanvas.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teaandcanvas
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeaAndCanvas
• Other: https://www.threads.net/@teaandcanvas