Our first artist to be introduced is the remarkable Scharon Campbell, a beautiful, young artist whose talents know no bounds.
As I ventured into her art studio, I was immediately captivated by the energy and creativity that permeated the space.
From the whimsical world of children’s book illustration to the captivating realms of fine art and graphic design, she seamlessly navigates across disciplines, each stroke of her brush or click of her mouse imbued with her unique artistic vision.
I asked Scharon a few questions:
As an artist you are required to do many different things. Is it ever confusing to wear so many hats?
“Deciding which hat is the most important and needs to be the highest priority at a given time, is not always clear. I do have hats that I prefer over others, but I can’t afford to wear only one. So yes, it can be confusing.”
What do you want to achieve through your art?
“I think that we can make art with the intention of conveying a thought, feeling or meaning but in the end the viewer will filter it through their own experiences and attach whatever meaning they need to get from the artwork.”
What piece of advice have you received that has had a lasting impact on your artistic practice?
“I visited Clarens with my husband on our third anniversary. We did the local art route although most of the artists were not open for business at that time. It was out of season for them. But we still managed to find one open door wherein my husband told the artist that I am also an aspiring artist. She said, “well get on with it then.” It was refreshing how simple she made it sound. I did get on with it then.”
How do you stay motivated and overcome creative blocks?
“I treat myself to new art supplies and try to mimic art that I find inspiring. I also remind myself that every time I hit a block previously it was just before I levelled up.”
What advice would you give to someone who is just starting their art career or considering it as a viable career path?
“It can be done and is still a viable career path, although it is perhaps not the most stable and turbulent free path to choose. To free yourself up to make the art that you want without stressing about financing your supplies, I suggest having a side gig that doesn’t require all your energy. The income you get from that can act as a sponsor until you build up multiple income streams to take over. Assign yourself dream projects and see if you genuinely enjoy doing that kind of work.”
Are there any artists or movements that have influenced your artistic development?
“Impressionism. Claude Monet and Van Gogh are the two artists I always find myself returning to.”
What advice would you give to your younger self?
“You will make it. You just must keep going.”
Where can we see your art?
“Visit my website at Scharonart.com or my Instagram page @scharonart.”
There is boundless potential that lies within Bloemfontein’s artistic landscape and the transformative power of art to inspire, uplift, and unite us all.
I am looking forward to discovering new artists and to share their stories.
Written by Mariaan Kotze, a Bloemfontein Artist and Art Correspondent for BloemNews.
