ARTIST OF NOTE: Telise Rodelv
I would like you to meet one of the artists I Mentor. Her work is fabulous and I know you will enjoy her story.
How did you and Gwen meet?
I have moved around the United States for many years after coming here from Norway when I was a young woman of 21, landing in Seattle, and then living on both coasts, as well as Colorado Springs, where I met Gwen. I asked around who was the best abstract painter in town, and her name came up every time, so decided to take one of her workshops in Taos that first summer, and we have been best buddies ever since. I have since moved (yes, again!) to Austin, Texas this time, but with internet and phones the connection is as strong as ever.
Q: What made you change your style of painting, Telise from abstracts to the “SilverStar Creations” you are doing now?
In the beginning of July this year, I found myself in a bit of a “funk” and to make myself feel better, I went to the studio and just played with my art stuff – cutting and pasting, splashing and dancing — having a real good time. After producing two paintings this way, I posted them on my FB page just to have a laugh with my friends. What I got back was astounding. “Fresh – authentic -fun- do more” -so I did one more; I got so fired up having FUN !
Q: And then you were off and running?
Yes, it was a whirlwind, I did 18 more in less than 30 days, and haven’t stopped yet. It has become a “quest”.
To begin with, it was purely the fun of discovery, then it became more about the story – the content. It was almost like they took over and told me where and what to paint and say – the story and message became even more important.
Q: Can you give us an example of this?
In “I Got This” the family came first, the little girl in her red dress with her hand on her back, the father tall and slim, etc. But then it became clear that the mother was the Hero here, balancing on top of her home, holding two umbrellas to protect her loved ones – being the Every Day Woman who works 24/7 to protect and love her family. It is my homage to these women with the world’s most important job.
Q: What kind of reactions have you had to these paintings?
People who take the time to really look get it!
I had one woman who bought a t-shirt from the “I Got This” for her daughter who had beat cancer; with tears in her eyes she said:” This is profound, just profound.” “Authentic – thought provoking – uplifting – fun – can’t stop thinking about it” are also words used.
For me this is the epitome of what I am wanting to do with my time left here in this world; if I can make a difference in some small way spreading love and lighten the load just a little, I am forever grateful to be the instrument.
Q: Where do you see yourself going with this?
I would like to see a print of “I Got This” in every woman’s cubicle and the mug on her desk, a picture of “Let It Go” on every bathroom mirror and the mug holding the toothbrush – you see where I am going?
I want people to stop and reflect on these images, embracing the intent and sharing the love and hope; one step at a time with integrity and honor.
Working as an artist is usually a very lonely “affair” – spending the bulk of your creative time in the studio. Having another artist to talk to who is dealing with the same kinds of issues you are is invaluable! Gwen has always been there for me, by phone or over a cup of tea – commiserating and guiding, laughing and crying; she is a straight shooter, telling it like it is, so I have come to trust and value her guidance immensely.
There is nothing new about her Mentoring – she has been doing it for years, just not in this focused manner – I would tell anyone who was considering having her as a Mentor that she is worth so much more than the cost of it; you will be getting a lot of great advice and help in getting your art career THRIVING! Knowledge you will carry with you for the rest of your life, guidance you didn’t think you needed — you will grow as an artist as well as becoming a stronger human being.
To see more of Telise’s work go to http://www.teliserodelv.com
Enjoy…
love and hugs,
gwen@gwenfox.com
professional artist, teacher, mentor and speaker