Cathryn Sofanos
Tell us a little bit about yourself?
For as long as I can remember I have enjoyed the love of creating and making things. Sewing, bag making, quilting, felting and textile art has been my main focus for many years. Recently, about 6 years ago, I added painting into the mix and it is the combination of all of these creative expressions that has resulted in one of a kind clutch purses, statement piece home-wares, fabrics and large paintings, that I have recently transformed into a small business. I named my business 'Perfect Chaos art' as it best describes my creative process. When I am creating, I work spontaneously and allow my work to evolve intuitively which creates mess that spills into the studio. Somehow, however, I still seem to know where everything is and what the next step in the process is, going to be, and although I'm never too sure of the outcome, I am confident that I will get there. That is the nature of life and the creative process. It requires the creator to act in the moment without consequence or concern for the outcome. The ability to know where everything is and to find inspiration in the surrounding chaos, is the perfection. The finished idea and/or product is still the goal, but the creative journey is the exciting part.
What is your favourite drink?
My favourite drink is a strong latte, that has to be extra hot with one sugar.
What inspired you to start painting?
I started painting as it gave me a new freedom of expression that allowed the execution of my ideas to be freer and more immediate. It gave me the permission to explore different colour combinations more easily and allow a more fluid and expressive style to my work. A kaleidoscope of rich and luscious color is the driving force behind my artwork and I love to work large. My painting is an abstract representation of both the urban street landscape and the beauty of the natural world. I try to capture the essence of nature which represents a world of chaos and order all at the same time.
This opportunity to be a featured artist is really helpful, as it can potentially create conversation around the art and allows viewers and potential buyers more understanding of the artist.
What advice would you give other artists/creatives starting out?
The most important thing I learned early in my painting process was that if I didn't like something, or I thought I may have ruined a potentially good painting by adding another layer, I could always paint over it, or paint out what I didn't like. This allowed me to experiment without fear and helped stop the self destructive voice that wants to prevent you from creating.
Although it is difficult it is very important not to compare yourself to other artists and focus on the areas of your work that you particularly like.
Focus on one or two ideas at a time and see them through until they are finished. Too much unfinished work can stifle creative development.
You can read more about Perfect Chaos Art here.