Q&A with Local Artist, Anne Abueva
We love hearing from the incredible artists that make up Affordable Art of Charleston. Today we are chatting with local artist, Anne Abueva. Anne’s art evokes emotion as each piece touches on a strand of human experience. Read the interview below to learn more about Anne’s work.
Tell us about yourself.
I am from Chicago and moved to Charleston last summer. I worked in interior design there for over 10 years, and eventually transitioned to full-time artist.
Tell us how you got started in art?
I honestly don’t remember a time when I wasn’t making art. I was always taking classes or experimenting with different ideas at home and often trying to show or sell the end result.
How would you describe your art?
My work is abstract expressionist. It usually has an emphasis on movement, layering and color.
What inspires you?
It would be easier to answer what doesn’t inspire me:) I draw inspiration from emotion, landscapes, memories, architecture, music, travel and lately even politics.
Which artists inspire you?
I remember being obsessed with Monet when I was about 8. I think there was an exhibition at the Art Institute of Chicago and I was hooked. From there I have a long list of artists whose work strikes a chord with me: Ellsworth Kelly, Robert Motherwell, Ky Anderson, and Heather Day’s instagram posts get me itching to paint every time. I feel like Instagram offers up new artists that inspire me all the time.
What do you love about working in the Charleston Art Community?
I’d say I’m still getting to know the art community, but I feel like everyone is very supportive and enthusiastic. I love that Charleston prides itself on its art scene.
How does Charleston inspire you?
The colors, the downtown architecture, the ocean, the bridges, the salty air.
What is your current favorite piece that you have done?
I recently finished a piece called “Twirl Me” and it was a bit of an experiment and stretch in a new direction that I really like and am excited about.
What is the most difficult part about being an artist?
It is difficult to wear so many hats- as an artist I am also in charge of branding, business, sales, marketing, social media, supplies, bookkeeper, etc etc. I enjoy all those roles, but sometimes it is hard to know what to focus on!
What is the best part about being an artist?
I love the feeling of putting paint to canvas. I love working with colors and shapes and compositions to express something from deep down inside. I love trying new techniques and seeing where they take me. Being an artist lets me take a mess and make sense of it.
What are your favorite pieces at Affordable Art of Charleston?
Carol has a great set of works on wood panel that I created during my time at home in March / April. They are each a reflection of trying to find peace and calm at home during such a scary time in the world.
Why do you love working with Affordable Art of Charleston?
I love that the gallery feels so approachable and local. Also, the ability to have pieces framed impeccably right there is huge. Working with Carol has been a great experience.