Ann Osgood of Phoenix on Life, Lessons & Legacy

Ann Osgood shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Good morning Ann, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I am enjoying cooler weather in Phoenix. It allows me to work outside in my garden which has mostly desert friendly plants. I have many sculptures by friends as well as some co-created with my husband that are installed in the yard. There are many places to sit and enjoy the art and nature.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am an artist who answers “I am a painter” when asked what I do. I have several styles of art that I explore, but most often it is landscape or abstract expressionist work. I have also been a teacher and consider that as a big part of learning myself. When I critique or demonstrate I also learn. I believe artists must be students as they examine visual ideas and explore new techniques. I am collaborating with a sculptor for a 2 person show next year. I am learning a lot in the process!

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child I thought of myself as a daredevil. I was a risk taker and felt no fear. That continued as a teen and young adult. I think the turning point was when I became a parent. That concern for the well being of my child was an intense shift to needing life to be secure. It can also be a mental restriction for artists to do what is safe in their work. As a young painter I was confident and not concerned with approval. Finding that risk taking in my work is always a goal.

What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
I am not unique in that the loss of dear ones is the most painful wound. I had a niece pass as a young woman from breast cancer. She was a wonderful musician and great human. Her death inspired me to paint and the resulting work was bought by a friend of hers who saw it in a solo show of mine. She didn’t know my inspiration, but it touched her. That soothed the pain of loss for both of us.

I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
Being in the world of fine art is sadly very much a world of promotion and salesmanship. Monetary value does not always equal artistic value. It is a business that pushes the illusion of worth when the excellence of the art is not always as good as presented. Artists have to balance pleasing the public and staying true to their individual quest stay ever growing and learning. The most successful products for the business side of art are not always the deepest and exciting art.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
I don’t know if it is peace, but when I am working on creating a painting I feel a surge, a rhythm, a sensation of full engagement. A different part of my consciousness is used that feels like my true highest self. I am grateful always to be a painter!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.annosgood.com
• Instagram: @utopiaartstudio.com
• Facebook: @utopiaartstudio.com