Artist Spotlight - Josephine Wall
Josephine Wall inspires many through her beautiful paintings that capture the inner mystical imaginations of fantasy lovers. We sat down with her to learn the story behind the artist and what advice she might have for any aspiring creatives.
When did you first discover your talent? Did anyone encourage it?
From the time I was very young, I knew that I was destined to be an artist. My father would often make little sketches for me, and I was entranced by how he created images as if by magic. As a girl of three, I became obsessed with art; by 16, I had sold my first painting.
How did you find your style?
My style was there from an early age but was mainly influenced by the surrealism of Salvador Dali, the romanticism of the pre-raphaelites, and the illustrative talents of Arthur Rackham. I love art nouveau, especially the work of Alphonse Mucha.
How has your style changed over time?
As with most artists, my work has evolved over the years, and I have veered more towards fantasy. Also, my colors used to be more muted, but now are much more vibrant (I love color!)
Do you dabble in other mediums or have any other hidden talents that people might not know about?
Few people know that I am also a sculptor! I enjoy using ‘found objects’ such as natural stone and driftwood, combined with modeling clay and semi-precious stones, to create unique figurines. Once complete, the effects created can make it a challenge for someone to tell where the natural part of the figure ends, and my work begins. I also dabble in leaded glass and, of course, painting everything I can, from the walls of the house to my own clothes.
Any advice for the aspiring artists out there that are looking to turn their talents into commercial success?
If you are truly serious about wanting commercial success, then once you have built up a good body of work, the best thing is to get an agent. A good agent will be able to find lots of different outlets for your work, deal with all the contracts, protect your rights and leave you free to get on with what you want to do most – painting! In any case, you should really enjoy every moment of creativity and not be put off by adverse comments.
Art can mean a number of things to different people and can be hard to define. What does the word art mean to you?
Nowadays, conceptual and nonfigurative art seems to be in vogue, but I do not understand this type of work. I prefer to see the skill the artist has used. Art, to me, is an all-consuming passion, and I am completely obsessed.
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