When I first got this blog assignment, I was told to be "chatty". Well sometimes it is hard to be chatty all the time. So I thought "Hey -- why not let someone else be chatty for me once in a while!"
So here the first interview. It is with muralist Karen Hetzer. I became aquainted with her on one of the mural/faux finishing websites a few years ago.
Why Philadelphia?
I've just come back to Philly after living in So Florida for several years, I've just always considered it home. Philadelphia was my first move out of the nest. I moved here when I was 18, and stayed for nearly 18 yrs. I love the old and the new of the city, its rich history and its hip urban feel, the exposure to different cultures, the ability to go from being in a bustling downtown, to walking a quiet path along a river in moments. And I love how this city embraces all things art.
What is your favorite thing to paint?
Large canvas murals. I like painting for kids rooms, but in a more grown up sort of style, a style they'll be able to grow with, and painting on canvas allows the owner to save it, not destroy it by painting over it.
How would you describe your style?
Well, I taught myself to paint by copying artists like Monet and Degas, so there may be a touch of impressionism mixed with a bit of realism.
When did you sell your first piece of art? What was it?
The very first piece I painted was a copy of a painting my grandfather had done. It was a camping scene, and I copied it onto the front of a chest of drawers. It sold fairly quickly in a little painted furniture shop, and I was hooked.
When did you first call yourself an artist?
I've been painting for 11yrs., probably not til about half way through that time period.
If you weren’t an artist, what occupation would you be in?
Probably still something to do with the creative arts, building furniture maybe? My second love is power tools. I also love furniture placement, I'm constantly moving things around, so maybe a home stager.
What is your next piece of art going to be and what inspired you to do it?
I've recently started creating instructional dvds for beginning artists, so probably another one of those. Not sure of the subject yet. I've been asked a lot of question about my work from muralists just starting out, and I remember how hard it was learning on my own, not being able to afford classes, so I thought this was a good way to help.
Do you sell on line?
I do. I keep a portfolio of my work on my website
www.karenhetzer.com for potential clients to see what I do as far as mural work, and I also sell the instructional dvds there.
Where else can we find your work?
Homes and businesses all over So Florida, particularly in Palm Beach and Martin Counties.
Contact info?
Email: karenhetzer@mac.com
Phone: 561-351-9548
What snack food do you always have on hand?
Popcorn, and I love instant mashed potatoes!
Philly.com discussions are intended to be civil, friendly conversations. Please treat other participants with respect and in a way that you would want to be treated. You are responsible for what you say. And please, stay on topic.
These boards are monitored by Philly.com staff. We reserve the right at all times to remove any information or materials that are unlawful, threatening, abusive, libelous, defamatory, obscene, vulgar, pornographic, profane, indecent or otherwise objectionable to us in our sole discretion and to disclose any information necessary to satisfy the law, regulation, or government request. Personal attacks, especially on other board participants, are not permitted. We reserve the right to permanently block any user who violates these terms and conditions.