Artist of the Month - January 2008 - Caren Thompson

Welcome to our Artist of the Month feature for January, and congratulations to Caren Thompson for being our selected artist.

Hi Caren - can you tell us a little about yourself, and how you got started as an artist and photographer?

I am self taught. I didn't start painting until I was 47, and then only for my own enjoyment.

After three months, I had several completed paintings. My husband loved my work and decided to take them to one of the local galleries, who in turn invited me to hold my first exhibition.

What are you favourite subjects to paint or photograph?

I love to paint women and children.

Do you have any advice for aspiring artists, or for those new to art?

Be absolutely professional in all of your dealings - if you don't take yourself seriously why should others?

What do you hope people see in your work?

I have been told by many there is a sense of peace in my work, which I am delighted to hear. My work also seems to evoke past memories.

Many of my paintings are purchased by Grandmothers & mothers for their daughters and daughters-in-law, also husbands buy for their wives.

Who are your favourite artists or photographers, and are there any works in particular which have inspired you?

The early work of Dan McCaw, Augustus and Gwen John, Mary Cassatt.

What painting, photograph or work of art do you wish you had produced?

Merikli by Augustus John.

Apart from your portfolio at artfair365.co.uk, how do you promote your work - are you a member of any societies, and do you have any exhibitions planned?

I belong to two internet websites in New Zealand. I also sell through two NZ galleries, one in Auckland where I live and one in Wellington.

I have just returned from a three week painting work shop in Italy 'The International Painting School' in Monte Castello, Todi in Tuscany.

From your own portfolio, which are your favourite 3 artworks?

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS, LITTLE BALLERINA and ALL THROUGH THE NIGHT.

Click here to view Caren's portfolio.

Click here to view our Artist of the Month for December - Simon Wild.

Click here to view our Artist of the Month for November - Sally Bassett.

Click here to view our Artist of the Month for October - Bill Jackson.

Click here to view our Artist of the Month for September - Maureen Greenwood.

Click here to view our Artist of the Month for August - Cinzia Castellano.

Click here to view our Artist of the Month for July - John Bird.

Click here to view our Artist of the Month for June - Anthony Caruana.

Click here to view our Artist of the Month for May - Clem Spencer.