Artist Profile--Darlene Veltman

This month we would like to introduce Portland Art Collective member--Darlene Veltman. As you can see, Darlene has a bright, playful style that she brings to her artwork.

1. What are the main mediums you use? What do you find satisfying about them?

I love to work with fabric, paper, beads, trims, and embellishments.

2. If someone were going to get started in those mediums, what suggestions would you give?

I love looking at magazines for inspiration. I like Art Quilting Studio, Sew Somerset and Quilting Arts magazines. If you buy a sewing machine…buy a good one. Buy good thread and fabrics.

3. A perfect art day would look like...

working in the studio all day with out interruptions.

4. Do you have dedicated studio space? Give a brief description of where you work.

I am very spoiled..I have a large basement all to myself that I have filled up with fabric, paper, books, magazines and workspaces. I have three rooms …rm #1 sewing, computer, library. Rm#2 cutting table , fabric, paper. Rm#3 painting table, paints, stamps, scrapbook and journal making supplies. That table is for messy work. The cutting table is for patternmaking and cutting out fabric. It stays clean.

5. Favorite place you've visited or lived?

Tokyo. I have been 5 times and can’t wait to go again. Every detail I see there inspires me in some way.

6. What inspires you (or are there recurring themes in your work)?

Flowers, fabric stores, vintage fabrics, my PAC buddies.

7. I still struggle with...

deadlines, and projects for other people. I like to just let the creative juices flow and not be hindered with deadlines.

8. I'd be lost without...

my camera, sewing machine, and fabric. They are my favorite things to play with.

9. Favorite dessert?

Ice cream with fresh fruit on top…but I won’t push away a cheesecake!

10. What's on the horizon?

I am going back to sewing more clothes…but will add Art to my clothes, make them unique and one of a kind. More quilts and journals…2010 I am making a small quilt a month and then journaling about what happened that month to me. Hopefully I will also sew up most of my fabric stacked to the ceiling in my studio…Room #2!

You can see more of Darlene's artwork on her blog.