Artists at Work

Fiction, Memoir, Narrative Nonfiction, Poetry, etc. are all acts of creation and artistry. We as writers are indeed artists and I believe it is important for us to think as artists and believe that we are artists. I say this recognizing there are distinct differences between what most people think of when they here the word artist and what a writer is, but I believe the differences are in the medium as opposed to anything else.

A sculptor has his unique issues as does a painter, a writer, etc.

So, below I've posted a few short videos of visual artists working and discussing their work and the act and artistry of creativity. How they approach their work has relevance for ours.

Film by Eric Minh Swenson. Sona Mirzaei is a contemporary artist from Los Angeles, California. Building on an innate interest in art evident since her early childhood, Sona took advantage of a rather unorthodox liberal upbringing and indulged her interest in the arts and sports.

Filmed in the studio this film shows the process of an oil painting by Irish artist Seán McCann. Watch the video and visit the website at http://www.seanmccannfineart.com for more details of "The Giant's Causeway". The film takes you through the process from start to finish giving an insight into his thought process and practical application of the paint.

During a visit to John Farrington's studio we explore the imagination and creative practices behind Farrington's work. His art explores the relationship between the human and animal kingdoms, and their connection to the environment.

Melissa Herrington, at work in her Venice, California studio

The latest documentary in our 'Life Of' series looks at inspirational artist, Adebanji Alade who shares his thoughts and passions on his life and work. Check out more of Adebanji's work on his blog http://www.adebanjialade.blogspot.com See more of our 'Life Of' films - http://thelifeofdocumentary.wordpress.com/ and please subscribe to our Youtube channel.