+
Brigitte Hayden
Interview with the artist
What is the first artwork you ever sold?
The first artwork I sold was in 2003 at a local exhibition. It was a painting of the famous bridge and ivy clad cotage in LLanrwst in North Wales and it sold for about £25. I was thrilled!
Where do you work, do you have a studio?
I work at the dining room table and would love to have a studio!
Who is your own favourite artist?
I have lots of favourite artists. I appreciate different aspects of each persons work. I have little knowledge of art history so I tend to know more about modern watercolour artists. As a lover of the great out doors I have a special affection for the paintings of David Bellamy.
What is the worst thing somebody could say about your art?
It's bland.
Are you messy or neat when you work?
I am very messy. I don't like to plan very much, I have a tray palette with paint all over it and I like to spread my stuff over the table and floor. I enjoy working amid chaos and feel too restricted if everything has to be kept neat and tidy.
Do you find art relaxing?
Watercolour painting can be frustrating and difficult but it is relaxing because it requires a level of concentration which makes thinking about other things impossible. It's a great way to escape your worries. Other artists will know what I mean I'm sure! It's certainly great when a painting works - it puts me in a better mood.
What is the best tip you can offer budding artists?
Gather hints and tips from wherever you can but follow your own path. It's easier to develop your own style than to try to copy someone elses. It's OK to 'copy' other peoples work as long as it's for you to learn something from - it annoys me when people try to exhibit and sell it! Also, try and buy the quality artists materials as soon as you can. I was painting for a couple of years before I took the plunge and I nearly died when I first bought a decent tube of paint and watercolour brush but it's just got to be done. I think this is especially true in watercolour. How do you know how good you can be if you're struggling along with inferior materials (especially, I would say, the paper - quality watercolour paper is a joy to paint on).Enjoy your art and do whatever you do as often as you can because that's the only way to move onward and upward.
If you could pick just three colours to work with what would they be?
French ultramarine, raw sienna and burnt sienna.
If your artwork could be displayed anywhere in the world where would you choose?
In my own studio and art gallery in a beautiful area of Great Britain.
What is the most expensive art related purchase you have made?
I have bought art courses/holidays with the Field Studies Council which are my most expensive items. They were great value, though.
Do you have an unusual 'day job'?
I was a chiropodist/podiatrist for about 15 years but I've hung up my nippers for the moment!
What is your favourite media and why?
My favourite medium is watercolour. You may have guessed. I have always admired watercolour paintings and wanted to be able to be creative myself with this medium. I find that it is wonderful for quickly capturing the effects of light on the landscape. I like the fact that it is unpredictable. They say it is the hardest medium to master so I like that challenge.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
