Marla Hope Kenney – ARTIST

Marla Hope Kenney

Interview with artist Marla Hope Kenney —

1. Who are you and what do you do?
Marla Hope Kenney I am a painter.

“Feeding Time”

2. Why art?
Not much choice here. I don’t know what else I would do as my urges to create are so strong and the passion I have for art is limitless. Teaching art inspires me to create as well.

3. What is your earliest memory of wanting to be an artist?
Taking private lessons as a small child from a lady who let me do what I wanted with guidance. The first piece I remember making is a collage of sorts. Mixed media with colorful tissue paper.

“Panama Jungle”

4. What are your favorite subject(s) and media(s)?
Nature but in the abstract. People, animals.

“991”

5. How do you work and approach your subject?
Openly. With the painting style I have, I cannot dictate to the canvas. Once I lay down inks, the art dictates to me and I free it.

6. What are your favorite art work(s), artist(s)?
Matisse is a big favorite of mine as well as Chagall. Their ability to create a freedom of movement in their works as well as their use of brilliant color is what I like. I love that Matisse saw the honor of teaching. I don’t really have a favorite work. There are many I love and enjoy.

“Horse”

7. What are the best responses you have had to your work?
Some love the use of bright colors, some the hidden imagery. I love that they all see their own things and appreciate that they stare for a long time.

“Green Pond”

8. What do you like about your work?
I like the act of producing it. I like the energy and colors.

“Fish”

9. What advice would you give to other artists?
Don’t be afraid to paint over something. Be open to where the work takes you. Work Work Work.

10. Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?
On the lake, retired from teaching in the school system, painting in my studio.

Marla Hope Kenney

Website: www.marlahopekenneyart.com