Interview with mixed media artist S. Thornton

I recently had the pleasure to interview the wonderful mixed media artist, S. Thornton.
Already having a feature on Artist spotlight section, I uncovered more about the creative mastermind.
when we talked about her passion for art, love for books, thoughts on creativity, plus more. 
Enjoy!

When was your starting point as an artist?

I always was artistic in my style and everything. I would cut up my clothing of all types just to be different. 

My starting point was when I decided to be different, to express myself to be free and make my own rules. 

So no brainer..it wasn't long till I picked up a pencil and started to draw and picked up a paint brush as well.

I see you do a lot of drawings and incorporate them in your paintings.

I love to draw, always been my thing.
That's why I make sure to incorporate a raw sketch in my paintings.
Something raw and different.

How have you grown and evolved, and how different is it now compared to when you first started?

I have grown way more than I could ever think or imagine. I look at pieces from early on and I am amazed. 

My art shows my journey. My art shows the many stages of my life, the life and times of  S. Thornton. 

It started  from a dark place and seemed to evolved to something brighter. Something more vivid.

Does living in New York influence your work?

I don't think living in one specific place influences me. My many life experiences influences my work. 

No matter where I live, the life lessons will always be the subjects to my madness.

What do you try to communicate through your art?

Opposing relationships of aspiration and defeat, triumph and glory. That glory part sounds awesome!!

What is your perfect working mode like?

Some days it can be loud music other times it can be completely silent just my thoughts and the sound of the brush strokes.

Your works are very detail oriented. What is the average time you spend on a project?

Depends on how excited I am to see the final project. Can be a couple of days.
Sometimes, I just like to look at it, so I just sit on the incomplete piece for awhile. I come up with my best ideas this way.

I just hope to bring exposure to everyday issues on the canvas that's all.

What is the most important factor to you when working on a project?

A message is received. I just want to spark conversations, connect people together with relatable topics. 

Create a safe haven. The protagonist perhaps? being a piece of artwork. 

I just hope to bring exposure to everyday issues on the canvas that's all.

What are some of the reactions or response you have received from people that have seen your art?

"Wow, where do you come up with these things"

"You have me thinking"

Those are the top 2. What was your first reaction?

My first reaction of your work was "Wow.. this is bold and eclectic."

What is your most challenging project so far?

The piece entitled "Elastic Heart" It was so personal. To get all my feelings on the canvas was very hard for me.
Its weird because you don't want to be judged, but hey its life..We all go through it.
Bring the judgement on that's why I have the gold elastic heart for. 

Besides art what else are you passionate about?

Reading, I am a book worm. I love to be knowledgeable in anything that interest me. 

I am fascinated with the ability to pick up a book and just escape and visualize the scenes and be my own little director.

What are you currently reading now and what are your top 3 books?

I am currently reading Discoveries by Frida Kahlo and Painting her on reality by Christina Burrus

My top 3 books I would have to say Basquiat: A Quick Killing in Art  by Hoban Pheobe. 

I have to say this book was really good. I felt like I was apart of the 1980's art scene.
The author painted a vivid picture with words from start to finish. 

Widow of Basquiat By Jennifer Clement..another great read.

Mix Media revolution: Creative ideas for reusing your art. By Darlene McElroy. 

I use this book for resourceful material. Very helpful. 

In your opinion how will you define creativity or what is your opinion on creativity? 

Creativity is about something FRESH.  Looking at things not as they are but as they could be. 

Being creative means to me a life worth living. My freedom, my escape my therapy.

What is the last great song stuck in your head?

Explosions by Elle Goulding.

Top 3 visually inspiring films.

Alice and wonderland (2010)

Charlie and the chocolate factory

Oz the great and powerful (2013)

Where is your favorite spot in New York?

The  Central library in Brooklyn. Something about books and silence gets me every time.
Besides that will be Blick art store. I'm like a kid in candy store when I'm around supplies.

What do you like most about what you do?

The ability to embellish my thought's and everyday issues on a canvas and let everything go.
That freedom of releasing man, best feeling ever!!

Connect with S. Thornton via:
Official webpage | Etsy shop | Instagram