Artist Spotlight: Elaine Stoker

How long have you been involved in art?
Since a child.  Seriously, a couple of years.

Was there a particular event that caused art to become a passion?
When I was in first grade I drew a picture for a, "Clean Up America Week," campaign and it was put in the school newspaper.

What kinds of things do you do for inspiration?
Listen to music.  Go to museums.  Observe people.

What words of advice do you have for 'budding' artists?
Be happy with who you are and embrace your own style.

What new things have you learned about yourself as you grew as an artist?
Don't trust what the so called critics say about your work.

Do you have any particular artists that inspire you and your work?
I am so new at this game that I haven't really decided.  I am all over the board with who I like that inspires me.

What awards have you won?

• Best of Show, Plein Air Paint Out, Fall foliage event, Martinsville, IN, 2009.
• Honorable Mention, Recycled Chair piece, Rising Sun, IN, 2010.
• Honorable Mention, "the Grand Victorian", Hancock County Landmarks series, shown in the Will Vawter Show, 2010.  
• Second place, "First Brush of Spring" show, plein air, New Harmony, Indiana, 2010.
• First Place, Second Place Ribbons, Riley Days Artist Show, 2010.
• Best of Show, torn news print piece as a recycle exhibit, Martinsville, Indiana, 2010.

Any advice for other artists on entering contests, etc.?
If you always do what you always did you will always get what you always got.

Any other unique things you'd like people to know about you?
I am not unique, I just do what I like to do and things start to happen.

Want to learn more about Elaine and check out her art?  GO HERE.