In the Studio with Maryland Artist Marty Spence

Today, we’re going In the Studio with Maryland artist Marty Spence. Marty’s artwork is currently on display in the Chesapeake Arts Center’s Our Maryland Gallery exhibit.

Fine artist, Marty Spence, is a Maryland native who gathers inspiration from her life, surroundings and nature. Rich color fills the canvas of her oil paintings and thoughtful strokes in pencil and charcoal cover the page of her drawings. Marty began her artistic journey in 1997 when she was 50. Her passion and talent were evident to her instructor, who encouraged Marty to pursue art further. It wasn’t until 2017 that she was able to devote herself to her work. Since then she has had her work displayed in several solo exhibitions including Reeves Art Gallery and Atwaters. Several of her pieces are also held in private collections at Sheppard Pratt Health Care System Hospital and in Charles Reeves personal collection. 

Here’s Marty talking about her art, process and experience...

What art do you most identify with?

If the question is asking about style, I think Tonalism at the moment. 

If the question is asking about content, I have been particularly drawn to Barnes and Sunsets.

When did you realize you were an artist?

At the age of 50 I casually took a drawing course at the local Community College. The instructor encouraged me to continue to pursue art courses. It made a huge difference for someone who has no self confidence.

How did you get into your art/side-gig?

I wanted to continue to draw and paint. I also had a desire to document a very special place where I grew up. I began by painting the barns. I was fortunate to have finally found a teacher who was instructive with kindness. After several paintings I put a book together of the paintings with reflections of those growing up years. I gave copies to my brother and sisters and some childhood friends.

What are you currently working on?

In the past year I completed a small Sunset, Sunrise series. I am considering a much larger series of a similar scene but in more of a tonalism style. 

 I am also revisiting drawings made over the course of the past ten years and compiling them into a book of some form.

What's your favorite piece of artwork that you have created and why?

I’m not sure of that. I do love the series I did of the barns and animals where I grew up. I think that may still be my favorite but it is indeed complimented by the Sunrise/Sunset series which really is all part of the same thing.

What food, drink, song inspires you?

No food or drink inspire me really. I do enjoy cooking and more enjoy serving. Song? I love all music. My all time favorite may be It’s a Wonderful World by Louie Armstrong. I like the message and I love watching him sing that piece.

What memorable responses have you had to your work?

The first piece oil I sold entitled “The Corn Crib” was sold to a very wealthy elderly gentleman who was a philanthropist and an art collector. I couldn’t believe it when he purchased the piece. I thought he was just being kind and his purchase was a gesture of support. He told me however that the piece immediately brought a tear to his eye. It reminded him of a similar structure on his Grandfather's property which he knew as a boy. And yes, The Corn Crib has a hint of the sunsetting in its color. 

What work do you most enjoy creating?

I love drawing but it is not yet at the level I would like it to be. Same with painting. 

What’s your favorite quote?

“If I create from the heart, nearly everything works; if from the head, almost nothing.”

What role does the artist have in society?

Multiple roles. The first thing that comes to mind are the political cartoonist. They are hysterical and right on. They say a million things in one drawing. Then there are the courtroom artists. I think I would have enjoyed that. The medical illustrators. The Plein Air artists capturing the moment in front of them. The realist and impressionist all communicate a message to the general populist. Beauty, Ugliness and everything in between cumulatively attempt to provide a balance. The artist play a quiet role, but a poignant one. 

What’s your dream job?

I so wish I had the skills to be a Portraitist. One that highlights the soul and personality of the subject.

Is there any local artist that Inspires you? If so, who and why?

Many. I am particularly taken by the Plein Air artist. Tim Kelly and Lisa Mitchelle come to mind. They produce amazing pieces from one sitting outside in the elements regardless of the weather conditions. Ian Herrick was in Baltimore but has since moved on. His pencils are superior. Barbara Kiwak is an excellent realism artist. John Brandon Sills is a superb Tonalist. And honestly the lesser known community senior citizens scattered here and there are probably as good if not better then many.

Why art?

Because it is an inherent part of us. We live in art within our dwellings and on our property and surrounded by the environment. It is who we are and we are who it is. There is no separation – just a little documentation.

For more information on Marty and the stunning art she creates, check her out on Instagram @gardenerhousecollectionfine, and Facebook.