Meet the Artist: Beth Adams

Meet Beth Adams, local watercolor artist and the creative brains behind OliveMeArtsie.

You recently joined Artistic Portland (and we’re happy to have you!).  What appealed to you about the Co-op?
I wanted to be a part of a community that not only encouraged my love for art but also to learn from other great artists.

Where are you from?
Born and raised in the Portland metro area.

What jobs have you had other than being an artist?
I worked mostly in long term care - providing support for the elderly and disabled. I supervised 50 plus caregivers and provided support to people with special needs.

Have you always loved creating?  Tell us a bit about your development as an artist.
I have always loved arts and crafts. I had a natural talent that people would express to me, and I just didn't see it. It wasn't until  I was given a watercolor postcard gift from my mother-in-law that I tried watercolors. It was in that set that I truly fell in love with watercolors and the way the water and paint moves on the paper.

What inspires you?
I am inspired by lots of different artists and forms of art. I love abstract art because it allows your imagination to fill in the blanks and see what you want to.

What do you enjoy about creating with watercolor?
I love the movement of water on the page with the paint. It always amazes me how each painting is different based on the level of moisture and paint added to the page.

What frustrates you about watercolor?
It is frustrating sometimes to have to wait between layers for things to dry and not be able to move fast. But it also forces me to slow down and enjoy there process.

You do a lot more than just paint. What other way do you like to create?
I love to create and usually it doesn't matter what I do as long as it's something to express myself and learn. I love sewing and creating personalized mugs. 

You have a watercolor class coming up in a couple weeks at Artistic Portland.  What should students expect?
Even a beginner can paint fluidly in watercolor! Used traditionally, watercolor paintings have a fluidity and transparency unrivaled by any other painting media. Often described as the "hardest medium" in which to paint, watercolor doesn't have to be intimidating.  In this self-paced watercolor class, I will walk students through basic techniques and supplies in watercolor, creating special effects in watercolor, and composing paintings in a loose, informal style. Students will make three different cards and envelopes to showcase just a few of the techniques they learned.

What do you like to do when you're not creating?
Being with my husband and friends. I'm a part of a close community of friends that are very close and we try to do as much of life together as possible.

If you could wake up tomorrow with a new artistic skill what would it be?
I'd love to be able to make pottery. I love how it looks and feels as well as its functionality.

Do you have any tips or inspiring words for others?
No matter what you think about your own creations, there is always someone out there who will love your work. Art is not just one way or thing.

To find out more about Beth's upcoming class, visit our classes page.  Stop by Artistic Portland any day of the week 10 am - 6 pm (noon-5 pm on Sundays) to see and purchase her work in person!