Local artist profile: Stephanie Baker (aka artcomfy)

THIS week we chat with the startling mixed media artist Stephanie Baker, who draws inspiration from not only visual artists but musicians as well, brainstorming what certain lyrics mean and how she can depict them.

What motivated you to become an artist?

Art is something I’ve enjoyed since a very young age. In kindergarten I took comfort in my ability to paint and create. The sense of safety I formed around art as a child followed me into adulthood, and I take comfort in knowing I have the ability to transform my feelings, thoughts and experiences into my work. It’s very therapeutic.

How would you describe your style?

I create complex surrealist mixed media works. I never stick to one medium because I always have the desire to explore new ideas and materials. Fundamentally I am influenced by the concept of euphoric inner worlds. Through this theme I dig deep into raw emotions, connecting with my viewers by embedding aspects of identity and emotion. I developed my style through my own tainted view of reality, and I love to twist everyday ideas and objects and immerse them with layers of visual language.

Which other artists inspire you?

I’ve always been inspired by artists like Salvador Dali and Pablo Picasso, due to their ability to distort and create a multidimensional universe. I’m also highly influenced by musicians like Melanie Martinez, Oliver Tree and Twenty One Pilots, due to the deep metaphorical nature of their lyrics. I like to brainstorm what certain lyrics mean and how I can visually depict them.

What are some highlights you have from your career?

Some of my favourite memories are my (involvement) in a variety of art shows in high school and also in the community. Some other fond memories are one of my first sales (a painting to a local music shop owner in Castlemaine), and my donation of another painting to raise money for the Men’s Shed in Trentham.

More recently I studied Certificate IV in Visual Arts at Bendigo TAFE, where I learnt a variety of skills and had the opportunity to be surrounded by likeminded people.

How can people check out your work?

I show my work in local galleries and exhibitions. There are a few other options to check out my work online on Instagram @artcomfy2002, website 645a26643d0cf.site123.me, and online shop depop.com/stephyyl_.

Do you have any exhibitions coming up?

From 12 December I’m holding an exhibition, Depths of Deception, at Exhibit B Central, located at 3 Mitchell Street. This exhibition focuses on visual distortions of day-to-day life. The artworks reflect my life, my thoughts, my experiences and my perspective. I’ll be having a small opening on 14 December between 12 and 3pm.

What would you say to regional aspiring artists who are thinking of making a go of the creative life?

If this is the career you want to pursue, understand that it takes a lot of work and dedication. Keep a sketchbook handy and fill it with new ideas, materials, research, inspirations and possibilities. This is a great stepping stone to understand yourself and what makes you tick. I would recommend investing in the essential quality art materials especially when you’re starting out.

Participate in art events and exhibitions. It’s best to be around people you can relate to and bounce ideas off. It can get incredibly lonely and isolating otherwise. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to make mistakes; it’s the only way you learn and develop as an artist.