Today’s artist spotlight features Chelsea McShane. I first discovered Chelsea’s vibrant animal paintings, abstracts and watercolor portraits on Instagram. Chelsea is a Tula based, self-taught artist who has always had a love for the artist world.
In this interview she shares about what drew her the her primary genres, the color she uses most often in her work, and her favorite piece she’s created so far.
When did you first know that you wanted to become an artist?
Ever since I was a little girl! I used to sketch and paint the kids I would babysit. I would also spend my babysitting money on art supplies and paint every chance I got.
Your artwork predominantly features contemporary abstracts, animals, and watercolor portraits. What drew you to these particular genres?
My love for children drew me to portraits, my love of interior design and bold color shapes drew me to contemporary abstracts, and my amazing customers drew me to animals! I do not like to limit myself to one particular genre and this is what makes art exciting and fun for me!
What color palettes or color in particular do you like to use frequently in your work?
Blues!
How does your love of modern day fashion, style, and interior design influence your artwork?
I love choosing my color palettes from modern day fashion and interior design! I love to look at a room designed by an interior designer and create a piece that I think would be beautiful in the space.
Currently, the bulk of my art consists of contemporary abstraction, animals, and watercolor portraits. Modern day fashion, style, and interior design are a major influence in my current abstractions and expressionist portraits. I hope for people to feel a connection with my work in a sincere, unique, and joyful way.
As a mom of three littles, what is a typical day in the studio like?
With Covid, it’s been crazy! I have a sitter that comes in the mornings for about 3 hours. I use this time to paint. I then use nap time and after bed time to communicate with customers and place print orders. I usually pack boxes in the mornings before the kids get up!
Tell me about the piece that you’re currently working on.
I am currently working on original last supper pieces and rework prints daily.
I love the abstract mini’s with the bamboo frames that you shared on Instagram recently. What was the inspiration behind them and also where did you locate the frames?
I love working with Framebridge on my frames!
What do you enjoy the most about working on your colorful animal pieces?
I love working with a lot of different shades of color.
What is the best part about seeing collectors pictures of where they’ve installed their painting?
Oh this is the best part of what I do! I love seeing how happy a customer is with a piece I have created for their space!
Where are some of the places you display pieces that you’ve painted in your own home?
My children’s rooms have animals and my I have contemporary abstracts scattered throughout the house!
Do you have a piece or pieces that have been your favorite to create?
The Last Supper and the creative flow of abstracts!
Keep up with Chelsea via her website, and on Instagram @chelsmcshane_art
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