Featured Artist: Sonja Benskin Mesher
Tell us about your work!
I spend my days painting , drawing, writing and collecting. That is the way I work, it is all involved, and rather all encompassing.
I am a fine artist and writer. Since I set up my practice, I have installed many solo exhibitions throughout the UK, including London venues. My work has been shown world wide, and I am involved with international projects ongoing. My work is now in several public collections, both here and the USA. All work is for sale from small sketches to large canvases.
I am a fine artist and writer. Since I set up my practice, I have installed many solo exhibitions throughout the UK, including London venues. My work has been shown world wide, and I am involved with international projects ongoing. My work is now in several public collections, both here and the USA. All work is for sale from small sketches to large canvases.
What or who inspires you most?
Everything, especially the little things, memory, music and stories
What is your favourite material to use?
Everything, nothing is discarded. I use what fits the brief.
When did you become interested in art? Earliest Arty memory?
When I lived in St Ives, as a child.
What would your artistic superpower be?
Bravery. I do not have the courage of others.
What is your greatest artistic fear?
Fear itself
If you could bring any artist back to life, who would you choose?
Victor Passmore or Ben Nicholson
Which living artist do you most admire, and why?
Roger Cecil, for his imagery
If money were no object what art works would you buy?
Roger Cecil's
Which group of artists (living or dead) would constitute your ideal dinner party?
I do not like dinner parties
What is your guiltiest pleasure?
Pass, I have given up guilt
Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?
Pass, I am 63 now, so who knows. I hope to still be here in the old house
Tell us about your studio. What will visitors see when they go there?
The studio stands in the grounds of the old house, Tynllan, which is over 500 years old. Visitors will be able to see the work, and the processes from the initial ideas to the finished painting, drawing or collage. We can talk and discuss ideas and art, and yes a panade is available here
What do you like most about your studio?
The Quietness
Which other artists live/work near you?
Some, but not in the village
Any pubs/café/restaurants near by?
Yes, Mawddach in Llanelltyd, the George 3rd nearby, Cross Foxes newly opened, and all the facilities in Dolgellau
Any nice walks or countryside?
Oh yes, the Precipice Walk, Cader Idris, Llanelltyd Lake, Cymer Abbey and many many more...
Visit the artist's Helfa Gelf page here.