Meet the Artist: Consu Tolosa

For this week’s blog Jennie O’Connor, of JennieOConnorArtist.com interviewed Consu Tolosa. Consu paints ‘Personitas’; sweet little children, sometimes playful and sometimes solemn but always spellbinding.

How long have you been a part of Artistic Portland, and what appealed to you about joining the
​Co-op?
 
I am one of the newest members; I joined AP this past October!  What appealed to me most was having a permanent home for my work in the world. I have an online presence and store, but it is really different to be able to talk to customers in person. I also loved the idea of my work being surrounded by the work of other local artists … and nothing else!

​What’s your background?
 
I am a maker of things and have loved engaging my imagination since I was very young. I took some art classes throughout my life, but eventually ended up training as an art therapist and focusing on having a clinical practice. My art making was very limited and private for almost 20 years. In 2012 I attended an art retreat hoping to open myself and my art back into the world. I have been making and selling my paintings ever since.
 
Why do you do what you do?

​I make things to feel grounded and connected to myself. The most amazing byproduct of having a consistent art practice is that I have learned ways to access both clarity and joy through creative expression. I also love the way others connect to my work. It seems to resonate for some folks in the very ways it feels to me while I am in the process of creating it.

Describe yourself in one word. Why that word?
 
Curious. Learning and understanding are vital to my well-being. I love to think of life as an unfolding story … if things get stagnant I don’t feel well.
 
Where do you create?
 
Everywhere… but I do have a little studio space at home.
 
What motivates/inspires your work?
 
Color, shapes, moods, desires, feelings and humor.
 
What kind of creative patterns, routines, or rituals do you have?
 
It’s all about showing up in the studio and picking up a brush. Every.
Day. No Matter What!!

​What’s your favorite piece you’ve ever created?
 
That changes weekly! And it’s how I’d love to keep it. Since I don’t have children, I see the characters I paint (my Personitas) as my kids… and as a good momma, I’d never have a favorite!
 
If you could wake up tomorrow with a new artistic skill, what would it be?
 
This is such a great question!! I would be a sculptor.
 
What do you like to do when you're not creating?
 
I love to dance by myself, read, and dream of swimming in the ocean.