My interview with Lorie taught me how early experiences, like having artwork displayed in school and constantly drawing in books as a child, can shape one's confidence and interest in art. I also learned how art can strengthen personal identity and create a community of creative people, even if one did not originally plan to pursue art as a career.
When did you know that you wanted to pursue a career in art? And why?
I think when I was in the third grade, we did an art project in school and mine got put in the showcase of the school. From then on, I wanted to be an artist. Art was always foremost in my mind. I used to draw in all of my little children’s books. There would be a blank page at the beginning of the book and I would draw princesses and castles, high heels on them. My imagination was always working.
Following off that, how did you know what part of the art world you would pursue?
I didn’t really think about a career at first. In the late sixties, the goal was just to go to college, get married and have kids. Before we moved to Boston, I was in art school in Cincinnati. That was a great experience. I had to wait until my daughter Molly went to elementary school, and then I applied to the Museum School. I didn’t have a goal in mind at first. I took a lot of different things—drawing, painting, etc. Then it developed over time.
Who or what had the most significant influence on you along the way?
One of my close friends growing up had a mother who was a weaver. In her house, she had a loom and all these beautiful colored yarns. She was very artsy. She had an herb garden and would go out and snip herbs and cook for us. She was a role model not just for making art but also for living in an artistic way. My art teacher in high school was also very encouraging.
In the late sixties, everyone was doing big acrylic paintings. I didn’t really relate to that kind of art, but spent time figuring out what I wanted to do. Initially, I never felt my art was coming from me—it was more like coming from observing others.
What has been the biggest benefit to you of pursuing a career in art or having art as an active part of your life?
It gave me an identity. Even though I had no career ambitions, and my mother didn’t work, I felt it was important to have an identity beyond being a housewife or mother. Art school and showing in a gallery made me a real artist. It became a career and an identity. It opened up a community of art people who have been an enriching part of my life. Family, friends, and just people along the way have been important. My drawing teacher’s work has always been an amazing inspiraton.
What roles do you think schools should play in fostering art education and appreciation?
It is a really important role. Some kids just don’t have access to art without school programs. Schools need to provide exposure, practice, and encouragement.
How concerned are you about the impact from cuts in funding to the arts, particularly in schools?
I’m very concerned. Creative programs need support. At my kids’ elementary school, the new school foundation raised money from the community to fund programs that the school couldn’t afford. Funding arts is essential because it benefits young minds, encourages self-expression, and provides a sense of community.
