Mariam: How has it been for you to sell your art in Edmonton?
Keith: Like most artists, we all wish more people would buy our paintings and as much as art is absolutely personal, it also has to speak to others. I don’t feel that Edmontonians per se, is any different than any other place when it comes to art appreciation. It’s a matter of getting your art to the right audience which can take a lot of work. I have been successful selling my art when it speaks to the right individuals and I have struggled when my art doesn’t speak to others.
Mariam: Do you feel Edmontonians tend to buy certain subjects more?
Keith: I do. I think that overall, people buy art with subjects that they can relate to and in the case of Edmonton, people can relate to Alberta’s magnificent landscapes. From the mountains to the plains and all of the flora and fauna that lives within this landscape.
Mariam: Do you have any exciting new art shows or classes you are teaching or interested in, coming up?
Keith: I don’t’ have any art shows coming up but am heading off to Philadelphia In August for a workshop and will be in Virginia in November for Figurative Art and Portrait Conference. I am also in the process of arranging a portrait project here in Edmonton with the collaboration of a number of portrait artists that I am very excited about.
Mariam: What advice would you give other artists about painting with oils?
Keith: Oil paint is a very forgiving medium so be fearless when putting the brush to canvas. In other words, do not be afraid of “making mistakes”. The “mistakes” may take your painting to places that you never thought possible.
Mariam: Thanks Keith for the amazing paintings you make!