Learning about an artist’s background and creative journey adds a deeper, more personal connection to their work. When you understand the inspiration, challenges, and stories behind the art, it becomes more than just a piece—it feels like an extension of their passion and vision. This connection can make the artwork even more meaningful, sparking a desire to have it as part of your own space. Now is the perfect time to get to know Andrea, as her work will be featured in our upcoming Abstract Expressionist Show on December 6th.
I spent this past summer break between Paris and an artist residency in the French countryside, painting and creating new work.
I have always loved making and being creative. After high school, I decided to pursue arts seriously, attending the Kansas City Art Institute, which set my path to pursuing arts professionally.
I became a single mother at 20, put myself through school, and completed my MFA in 2013 at the University of Iowa. Being a mother, a young single mother was a challenge, but through a lot of hard work, perseverance, and support from family and friends, I made it through. I also have been working through a creative block after a prolonged illness and the death of a close colleague, fellow painter, and friend, Lynette Lombard. Luckily, I have not had many creative blocks in my life, and I am grateful to be working through this, getting on the other side of things, and developing a new body of work.
Especially as a single mother, the idea of solely supporting myself and my daughter from my art practice didn't feel practical. I also always imagined myself as a teacher, as I love helping others find their creative voice and am a major geek when it comes to my love for art theories and history. So, yes, I teach full-time as an Associate Professor of Art at Knox College in Galesburg, Illinois. While I love teaching, my daughter is now grown and on her own, and I plan to transition to being able to dedicate more time to my creative practice over the next couple of years.
While I think most artists create work first and foremost for themselves, out of an inner need, and that is true for me. At the same time, I want this work to go out in the world to live with and connect with others.
