by Monika Blichar

As we approach the Edmonton event, I find that the level of anticipation and stress increases for everyone involved in making this event happen! From all the little details to the final layouts and line ups, we are all getting ready for a great night! During the time where everything is busy and we are doing a million things at once, it is always great to remember to be “humble and kind” which brings me to my next artist interview with Tara Clelland, aka “Humble Tara”. I caught up with her and she’ll be telling us about what her brand stands for and some of her inspirations. 

1-When did you start making art and when did you know that you wanted to pursue it as a career?

I have been creating whimsical pieces of art for years, privately. I let the world know in the summer 2014. I felt it was too personal to share with anyone. I paint with my heart. It takes a great deal of vulnerability to show the world your soul. I wasn’t ready till 2014.

Making art is a passion for me. If I could do this as a career, I would be on top of the world!!! If I can pay bills and do what I love?? Bonus!!

2-Your art name is “Humble Tara”. What does this name represent to you and your art?

The common theme in my life has been “be humble and kind”. Treat others the way you want to be treated. This world needs kindness and it starts with us. Everyone has a story. Being humble is putting others ahead of yourself.

The intention of my work is to evoke a “reaction”, a “feeling”. The stories I hear from people are truly amazing and inspiring. If I can give that person a “moment”, then I am fulfilled.

3-You mention that you paint a lot for mental health. How has making art helped you? What would you recommend others to start with if they were looking to use art as therapy?

Yes I use art as my therapy. Like a form of meditation. When I paint I only think about painting. I am present in the moment. Sometimes my anxiety is overwhelming, I shut out the world while I paint what is going on in my head.

My recommendation for others to start their art journey is to JUST DO IT. Get a pad of paper (thick paper is better) and a acrylic palette (like paint by number containers)  and just let your mind flow to your fingers. Do not judge your thoughts or what you create..let it flow. Getting started can be very inexpensive.
4-What can guests expect to see at your exhibit? Will you have show specials or contests?

I am bringing a variety of pieces to show the diversity in mixed media. Classic cars, animals and a few abstracts.

Yes I most definitely will have show specials!! Stay tuned to find out!

5-Where would you like to see your art business in five years time? Any big goals or dreams you would like to share?

What I would like my art business to be like in 5 years, is to attend/contribute to more exhibitions across Canada. To have a recognizable brand. Also receiving commissions from patrons looking to capture their beloved vehicles in canvas form.

A dream of mine is to do a VERY large canvas for a patron. The options are limitless.

6-If you could be a superhero, which one would you be and why?

If I was to be a superhero I would most likely be Rogue. She is strong and has the amazing ability to absorb people’s memories via touch. For the people who are suffering, I would take away the pain for them. And of course she can fly!!!

To learn more about Tara’s work, visit her website.

Bio:

I am a self taught artist. I have been doing art my entire life, privately, for my mental health. My first public show was the Edmonton Whyte Avenue Artwalk of 2015. My favourite medium is acrylic. Miscellaneous types of paper and adhesives are a few of my “go to” tools to use in my work. Making 3 dimensional objects into 2 dimensional objects is such a rewarding challenge for me.  I love animals, automobiles, landscapes and just about anything I can create into a whimsical collage of colour.

Monika Blichar is an Entrepreneur and Artist. She is owner of Monika’s Art Boutique-Studio & Gallery in North Vancouver and producer of Art World Expo and Painting Dreams International Art Tours. She is always pushing boundaries as an artist and creative entrepreneur. Her love of the arts has been a part of her life since childhood.