Meet Gail Haire

Today we’d like to introduce you to Gail Haire.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I found my love for painting as an adult. I was well into my career when I felt like something was missing and decided it may be art. So I started taking lessons and was hooked! I was fortunate to find coaches and mentors who taught me so much about composition, style and how to have fun with color. I traveled a lot so time for painting was limited and sporadic. But I kept up with the lessons and painted when I could.

When I retired in 2017, I joined the Sonoran Arts League and met a group of artists that met once a week to talk about all things art. They have been instrumental in my pursuing a second career as an artist. Today I am painting full time, I’m a juried member of the Sonoran Arts League and exhibit at On The Edge Gallery in Old Town Scottsdale.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I started painting in a photo realistic style, but after I retired and began to pursue art as a second career, I decided I wanted a change. I struggled to develop a style that was me and also unique. I’m inspired by the simplicity of shapes and the contrasts of light and shadow. And I love the outdoors. It took about a year to develop my current contemporary, interpretive Southwest landscape style and it is still such a fun journey. I always look forward to starting my next painting!

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m an oil painter and I specialize in contemporary Southwest landscapes. I think I am best known for my use of color and my simplified compositions. I’m most proud of the style that I created to be just me. I wanted it to be unique so people would recognize my work and I’ve been told that I accomplished that!! What sets me apart from most artists is that I never picked up a paint brush until I was in my 30’s. So it is never too late to pursue a new direction if you really want it.

Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
My life makes me happy. I love to paint and I really get excited when someone else loves my work and takes a piece home with them. To know my painting brings someone else joy is the best!

Contact Info:

• Email: gailhaireart@gmail.com
• Website: www.gailhaireart.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/gailhaireart
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/gailhaireart