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From Inner Turmoil to Hyperrealism

  • Cher Pruys
  • 17 hours ago
  • 5 min read

Interview with Cher Pruys


1. Please tell us something about your background and your art journey so far.

Artistic evolution for me has evolved along with my choice of medium and style. From the beginning of my artistic journey when a crayon, then a pencil, then charcoal and pen and ink helped me to convey and express my inner thoughts and inner turmoil on paper the burning desire to include more substance in my work. I graduated to oil paints, dabbling in abstract which did present a freedom of flow I enjoyed, but chronic migraines made worse from the oil paint emissions and the recurring call for realism renderings helped my gravitation to water-based mediums. The joy I felt as I manipulated the watercolors on my chosen surface and then the incredible control of the acrylics which lent itself fully to the finest details I desired were magic…I was hooked. My realism to photo realism to hyperrealism had begun.



Being a self-taught artist rather than having experienced a formal art education has had its challenges. In a society where so much importance is placed on titles you can attach to your name achieving the success, respect and encouragement needed to reach that plateau can seem unsurmountable. That said technique can be taught…TALENT cannot. Structure, good work ethics, dedication and desire make for a potent potion. I had been trained formally as a musician, so the groundwork was laid. I dedicated a number of years to bodybuilding which also required a strict adherence to structure as well as fulfilled a desire to observe and fully study and observe anatomy. I went through a lot of trial and error, but in the long run I was able to explore and develop my artistic identity to a most fulfilling degree without the constrains of formality.


2. Describe what a normal day looks like as an artist.

A normal day as an artist for me begins with rising at 5:00 am, doing a strength training workout and yoga, then a walk with my awesome dogs for a dose of fresh air and to kick me into work mode. Once back home I pour a cup of coffee and retreat to my studio. I take time to sit down at my baby grand piano to play a few tunes to settle my mind, open my creative pathways and prepare for the challenges at the easel. By now it is 8:00 am and I will work on my art till around 4:00 or 5:00pm with a few stretches in that time. I try to end the work part of my day then to spend time with my pets and my spouse.


Full Circle
Full Circle

3. Can you tell us more about the theme in your art and your inspiration?

I see my art as the puzzle pieces of who I am. The memories of my life thus far that have accumulated to bring me to Cher today. I am able through my paintings of children go back and experience moments in time that had subtle or profound bearing on who I have become, and to recapture the magic in those moments, thus still feeling their impact. Some of my other subject matter gives pause to the clock as I take time to view my past years as a spectator. Some of my still life work reminds me to cherish my rituals and appreciate a little free time that I can use to regenerate myself. I look for beauty and interest in the many subjects most consider mundane. The gift to really see the many marvels that abound in our lives no matter how seemingly boring, simple or irrelevant they appear at first is a gift I so truly am thankful for. I never forget to look and find forgotten or passed over moments that affect my psyche, and to positively incorporate them into my art.


4. How does your art life impact other parts of your life?

I truly feel that my artworks are the most rewarding and fulfilling way for me to communicate my inner thoughts and feelings with those around me. The fact that my subject matter is usually positive has factored in. I realize that what is most important is to stay true to myself and my beliefs which I can translate into my art. My art impacts my daily life both through communication with others and the gratitude I feel when I am able to create work that satisfies my desires and touches others.


Thumbs up
Thumbs up

5. Can you tell us more about the theme in your art and your inspiration?

I have several health issues that greatly affect my daily life and have a direct impact on my ability to do my art. I have advanced rheumatoid arthritis which has resulted in numerous surgeries, including 3 on my painting hand. Fortunately I have been able to meet the challenge this brings and continue to paint to a degree I am happy with. I also suffer from chronic migraines which affect the eyes so it can be a challenge to see properly as I paint. That said it has given me pause to reflect on how fortunate I am to still be able to do what I love. I have unbelievable admiration for the mouth and foot artists, as I find them amazing artists.


6. Tell us about your best experience in the art world so far.

I think my best experience in the art world to date is the satisfaction it brings me when one of my clients is moved to tears with the painting, they have acquired. To see the emotional reaction my work brings to them is absolutely the best feeling in the world.


Catching Snowflakes
Catching Snowflakes

7. What practical advice can you give to fellow artists?

Find your own style. Admire and learn from established artists whom you admire but aim to be an individual whether by subject, style or both. Be prepared to pay your dues with long hours and hard work. Learn how to accept constructive criticism and apply the lesson to self-growth. Remember that accepting failure can become a stepping stone to success. As an artist, dream big and follow that dream. In a world of masses remember there is only one you…so for the short time we are on this earth, remember to spread your wings and fly as you will soon learn to soar.


8. Is the artist life lonely? Please share your thoughts and experiences.

The artist life can be lonely, as a serious artist who concentrates on my own work and works best alone as I find I concentrate best this way, it does result in hours, days, weeks and month spent by myself. I used to teach numerous art classes especially to children which I enjoyed, but my health issues have curtailed that. I still teach the occasional class, so as to keep in touch with others, and I have involved myself in a number of art groups that I am able to attend on zoom, so it keeps me in touch with other artists which I feel is very important.


9. What are you working on at the moment and are there any upcoming events you would like to talk about?

At the moment I am working on a number of commissions, as well as quite a few pieces that I have wanted to do for some time….always something new on the horizon.


 
 
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