June 17, 2019Artists

Interview with Artist Angelica Clemmer (Gel)

So, tell us a little about yourself and your creations:

My name is Angelica, Gel is my nickname, anGELica, I was born at the beach in Vina del Mar, Chile. Moved to the US super young. I’m a beach bum to the max, from day one. My parents tell me they had to watch me carefully because I would throw myself into the water without knowing how to swim, swimming lessons came early. My aunt was an Olympic swimmer so that helped a bit. My father is an artist and basically gave me a brush at a very young age. On my mother's side, musicians. I love all the arts!! I’ve been painting and in the ocean my entire life. I like to create art that makes people feel good, with bright colors and a positive message. It’s kinda like I turn everything I think and feel into my world. I like to think I’ve created a world with no boundaries. When inspired I make lots of art, inspiration comes in waves and I go all out. I surf in San Clemente, CA and the Delmarva area the most. I also love spending time on the mountain snowskating and snowboarding in Colorado and spending time with my boyfriend Scotty and sweet Alonzo, my Portuguese water dog.

Her Waves interview artist Gel mountain painting

What inspires the art that you create?

I grew up with yogi parents, I’ve been meditating since I was 16 years old and yoga since 7 years old. With time I’ve realized inspiration comes from within, from my life and the things I do. So my passion for surfing and snow have a lot to do on how I feel most of the time and translates into my art. I also care about animals and the planet and the true meaning of life. The connections we make and the energies that surround us and are us.

Her Waves interview surf artist Gel palm trees

What is the biggest challenge you face as an artist/entrepreneur?

The biggest challenge is myself, to remember to be present, here today, and not get caught up on what people want from me, a lot of times I get pulled in so many directions, it’s hard to say no, it’s hard to do what you really want with your art when your paycheck comes from what others want from you. For a while I struggled on the worth and value of my art. Everyone wants to tell you how to run your business. Why so much, why so little. Some people don’t value original art and are happy with a print, different art perspectives are a bit of a struggle.

Her Waves interview artists Gel david bowie

What have you learned that you would love to share with others starting their artistic journey?

Never give up, if something doesn’t work, try something different. People will tell you to do something else, get a job instead of buying your work. Stay focused, work hard, no one will come knocking on your door to say you are amazing. Don’t believe that exposure pays your bills, ask to get paid. You deserve it! Don’t listen to the non believers, surround yourself with like minded people, other artists, people that are on the same path, people that will support your dreams and not ask ‘’how are you going to do that’’. Also be a good loving influence to your friends and the people you come in contact with. Don’t copy other people stuff, stay authentic. Have a vision, come up with a plan and follow through and finally remember, it is about the journey, the lives you touch, the positive impact you can make with your art. Maybe change the world for the better a little bit by bringing happiness into people’s lives.

Her Waves interview surf artist Gel Angelica

How long have you been surfing and what does surfing mean to you?

I’ve been surfing for the past 20 years. As a kid, it was just a beach activity that turned into a total addiction. Grew up around a bunch of surfers. My friend's dad owned the local surf shop, he would let us take the rental boards, then friends would let me borrow boards and one summer I decided I needed my own, so I worked on the beach setting umbrellas and chairs with a tip jar that said, help me get a surfboard! I think that was summer 2003. Surfing allows for freedom, nothing else matters when I’m in the water, total connection to mother earth and that amazing ever changing energy, also amazing friendships all over the world. Means total happiness even when I’m taking a beatin’ ha!

Her Waves interview artist Gel surfing