Artist Spotlight: Senior Isra Kertgate

When did you start creating art?
I’ve always been a creative person so I think I started creating art the moment I was able to. However, an official answer would be when I started school and was required to take an at class.
What is your favorite piece of art you have created?
My favorite piece of artwork that I have made is actually very simplistic and took me around 5 minutes to create. Although it is one of my simple pieces, the memory and meaning associated with it is very personal to me. It’s called me&u.
How would you describe your artistic process?
I usually get inspiration from random things I see out in the world and on the internet. I would say I have a pretty distinct art style so it’s easy for me to see something and interpret it in my own way. I usually also never plan out my pieces so I come up with a lot on the spot.
What is your favorite thing about art and creating?
My favorite thing about art is seeing the final product. I’m a very impatient person so sometimes I find myself rushing the process to be done with the piece but I have to remind myself to slow down to get the outcome that I want. I also like how creating art takes up your time and attention so you don’t have to think about anything else.
What does being an artist mean to you?
I think an artist just means someone that is able to express themselves creatively. The terms art and artist can be applied to so many things: visual arts, music, theater, etc.
How has creating art changed your life?
Art making has provided me with a creative outlet that I can actually enjoy doing. I was never good at playing instruments or acting so I’m glad that I have art to pour my emotions into.
Do you like to share your work with others?
I like sharing my art with people but I don’t like sharing the inspiration or meanings behind them. Even though my art looks rather shallow and simplistic, I associate intense feelings and experiences with each piece, which is very personal to me so I’d rather keep them to myself. I also like when people have their own interpretations without knowing mine.
Where do you find inspiration?
I find inspiration from all over, inspiration also comes to me from the most random places. However, I would say most of my artworks stem from my past experiences and what emotion I was feeling at the time.
Would you like to continue art professionally?
I’m going to a fashion school (FIT) for a business related major but I am bound to continue using my creative skills, not only for my occupation but for my own personal enjoyment as well. I don’t know if I will be selling my paintings but I do want to dabble in tattooing.

What advice would you give to other young artists?
My advice would be, it’s ok to find inspiration from anything and everything but always make it your own. Recreating work that is not your own is never nearly as rewarding as making something that you have conceptualized and worked hard on.