Interview with Artist Addie Gibson from Florida
So, tell us a little about yourself and your creations:
Hi!! My name is Addie, I feel really weird calling myself an artist, so I just tell people that I like to paint. I am a big advocate for mental health and painting is my therapy. If I didn’t get to put my brain down onto paper, my iPad, or some other medium every day I would go crazy!
What inspires the art that you create?
Surfing and the ocean are the obvious answers, but to be specific... the surf culture here on the east coast is so inspiring. Every surfer here is so unique and talented in and out of the water. I’m currently finishing up an art series called "East Coast Surfer Profiles” where I am illustrating all of my friends and surfers that inspire me and that spark that creative energy in me. I’ve been told that my art makes people happy when they see it, and that is probably the biggest compliment I could ever receive. I love how my brain translates my creativity for me, so others can see the joy that it brings me.
What is the biggest challenge you face as an artist/entrepreneur?
Oh lawdy, I think I have a few. I didn’t realize how territorial artists can be. I wish we could all encourage each-other for our differences more instead of comparing one another and what’s similar between the art. I also have no idea what I am doing (business wise) with my art. Trying to sell your art and learning the “in’s and out’s” of this business is like learning a new language to me. I would have to say that the biggest challenge that I face is procrastination. I wait until the last minute for a lot of projects and I dislike that about my character so much. I am trying with each customer to get better at it, but it has been one of the most challenging things for me to accomplish. So, if you ever do order something from me, please nag me!! The more nagging the better lol.
What have you learned that you would love to share with others starting their artistic journey?
I have learned that painting is a passion for me and helps me feel complete. I would love for artists to not be so hard on themselves on finding their niche. Creating should bring you joy, and if it doesn’t, try new techniques and styles that feel more comfortable and natural to you.
How long have you been surfing and what does surfing mean to you?
Well, my dad was a big surfer ever since he was a teenager, so I have had the surfing blood in me since before I was born. I didn’t really start getting into surfing on my own and stuff until I was about 12 years old. Now, I surf when I feel like it but don’t beat myself up if I’m not feeling it that day. I will do a local log contest here and there. I make sure that if I’m not enjoying myself, then I need to reconsider why I am surfing and what my intentions are with it.
What’s your favorite funny or inspirational quote?
My dad passed away almost ten years ago and he always had a little quote next to his steering wheel that said “just do it”. That quote has always inspired me to stop thinking so much and just do it. I have a lot of funny inside jokes with my family and friends but at this moment my mind is going kind of blank lol.
Instagram @ohmygoshaddie
https://www.addiegibsonart.com/
