A visit with Cheryl Hardie Holt
Tell us about yourself and your art journey.
“I have always loved art, drawing, coloring, painting. I’m drawn to color, texture, lines, and patterns and so I see art everywhere. With my children grown, I have found the time to immerse myself in creative expression and pursue my own art education. I returned to school, aged 58, at Cape Fear Community College and now am attending UNC-W’s Studio Art program. Meanwhile, I have a charming studio in historic Burgaw, overlooking the courthouse square. I enjoy having my family and grandkids up for family painting fun. I also have childrens’ art activities through Pender Arts Council. Another group I really enjoy is Communities in Schools of the Lower Cape Fear. They are a fantastic organization and I’m grateful to work with them doing art with students after school. Anyway, I love art and I love people and I love bringing the two together.”
Do you have an art business?
Yes, “my personal business name is Emerge Studio Art. It was inspired by the Latin expression “Luctor et Emergo” – I struggle and emerge.
As I grow older, I am more aware of the struggles of life and that struggle is a basic human condition for us all. So “Emerge” becomes a victory! We all struggle but the important thing is to emerge! “
Please share about your Social Media or online presence.
“My social media is pretty much Facebook. One day I may have a website. All I really want to do is paint, not spend time on electronics!!!
What is your favorite media?
I enjoy mixed media. It’s all about variety, freedom, and creativity. Watercolor fascinates me but my experience with it has been like trying to housebreak a puppy… “Oh no! Not there, not there!!! Over here, over here…” Trying to coax the colors around the paper! (Editor: ‘Haha!’)
Acrylic paint is my old friend, comfortable and dependable. I have used oils but it’s been a long time.”
What media would you suggest that a beginning artist start with?
“For a beginning artist, I would suggest charcoal pencils, acrylic paint, and anything to experience process art.”
What is your style of art to you prefer to create?
“Abstracts and Surrealism.”
Who are your favorite artists?
“Picasso, Van Gogh, Marc Chagall, Matisse!!!”
Who is an artist or artists you’d love to be compared with?
“No one – Comparison is the death of Joy!” (Editor: ‘Love this!’)
“I don’t want to be compared to anyone but me – as in ” well, she’s better than she was last year!” My hope.”
Where do you get inspiration?
“My inspiration come from nature, the outdoors. I love birds and things that fly, the ocean, and colors of the sky.”
Any suggestions for a productive & comfortable work space?
“Comfortable chair, good lighting, a window for musing, your music, snacks and coffee close by.”
Do you use technology much? If so, what and how? Any recommendations of APPS, programs, etc.?
“No, I don’t use technology in my personal art. I am currently taking a graphic arts class at UNC-W and I do find it interesting, the things that can be done!”
What is the best art advice you’ve ever been been given?
“Do it, just do it. Pick up the pen or brush and use it. Don’t hold back.”
What advice would you give a beginning artist?
“Trust yourself. Be open to acquiring knowledge but be aware and confident in your unique talents.”
Any thoughts to share with Senior Adults about painting or creating art?
“Any creative art can have a meditative, healing effect if you allow yourself to relax and enjoy it. I think that many older people are really creative and expressive because of their accumulated life experiences. And it is also fun!”
How do you know when a work is finished?
“How do you know when a work is finished?”
How is the best way to learn how to create art?
“If you are just starting out, You Tube has so many fun videos and tutorials to watch. But the best way would be a painting class or event. Hands-on is the best way.”
Anything else that you’d like to add?
“I truly believe that everyone has an inner artist but not everyone is interested in cultivating that talent. It takes a special set of circumstances to really motivate an artist and those circumstances are like the stars in the sky…unique and endless! “
We appreciate so much you taking the time to share with us.
“Thank you for another opportunity to talk art!”
You can contact Cheryl at Cheryl.hardie.holt @ gmail.com