Today we’d like to introduce you to Sarah Spencer.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
Curiosity leads me to many adventures in creativity. My first breakthrough came when I discovered how inspiring creative tools are. I played with transparent watercolors throughout my life without finding true inspiration in it. It wasn’t until I discovered Pelikan opaque watercolors that I realized how powerful a simple creative tool can be. Bright, juicy colors laid down in no particular order rev me up. I look at every tool as an opportunity to explore something new. I search the aisles everywhere from art supply stores to hardware stores to thrift shops for unique tools that spark my curiosity. Nature and beauty inspire me at every step. I create paper sketches to capture what I see and learn as a way to remind myself of moments revealed during nature expositions. Between tools and nature, my practice is ever expanding and I always have my next adventure lined up.
Please tell us about your art.
I am passionate about communicating creatively. I make art that tells a story. The actual product can vary from a black and white illustration to a full-color paper sketch or poster created for a client. I enjoy testing out different tools and materials and that leads to discoveries all the time. A big part of my process is exploration just to see what will happen ‘if’? I incorporate text a lot in my work because communicating a message is key for my practice. One of the most important elements for my creative process is collaboration. I prefer to create with others. This is true both in my personal work where I create with friends and in my professional practice, as a graphic recorder where I incorporate others words into my illustrations. I hope to always inspire others with the idea that creativity is for everyone no matter your skill level.
Choosing a creative or artistic path comes with many financial challenges. Any advice for those struggling to focus on their artwork due to financial concerns?
Never allow lack of financial resources stop you. That is really just an excuse. There are so many resources available as human capital, partnerships, collaboration, free resources for small business needs and more. Giving up on the work you are interested in doing due to lack of funds isn’t using your creativity. Push through, fight for it and create in a new way with different people, materials, and locations. We are creative, money should never be a barrier. Half the work is creating the other half is hustling and doing side work so you can give all your energy to your creative practice.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
My professional portfolio is available online at behance.net/26-letters. My website offers graphic recordings, client illustrations, animation, and videos which can be viewed at 26-letters.com. My playful practice with my creative buddy called Creatives in Space at by viewed on YouTube at tinyurl.com/h7ylr6m.
My Instagram feed that celebrates my trecks into nature can be viewed at instagram.com/26lettersaz. My large canvas painting can be viewed as part of the collection at the University of Arizona, Phoenix Campus located in downtown Phoenix.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.26-letters.com/
- Email: sarah@26-letters.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/26lettersaz/
Image Credit:
Mark Peterman
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