Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalie McGuire. Them and their team share their story with us below:
Natalie McGuire Bio:
Natalie McGuire is a multi-award-winning artist. Awards started in 2003 at local art shows, “winning cash prizes in her category. 2012 she won Student Photographer of year. Later in her career, Natalie was awarded 1st place, Juror’s Choice, and People’s choice awards at exhibitions locally and nationally across the use from 2019 to the present. Her education began as a small child; she learned photography composition from her father. Her Aunt Natalie fueled the creative side, allowing it to flourish. Her parents loved to travel via RV as they believed the road trip was a part of the journey, and they got to see a lot of America that you can’t get from a plane. She’s always been a fan of Ansel Adams and Bob Ross’ style, even though Bob was a painter, and loved watching his programs on the local PBS. Drove her to get out and be with nature. Creating art helps Natalie connect with the viewer, exhibiting her ability to make you feel like you are there with her.
Natalie is known for her Infrared black n white photography along with her Photozaics (a combination of her two loves, photography and mosaics). She Attended Community education classes for basic photography in 10997/98, studied under Deidra Monk, later enrolled in the Hennepin Technical College Digital Photography program, and studied under Paul Sinkler, Tom Hanly, and Tim Grey until the program closed. She’s continued her education by attending one-day seminars with National Geographic photographers. She continues her education in unconventional ways by joining Wyoming Center for Arts, ACW (Art to Change the World), PRCBoston, Griffin Museum of Photography, Praxis Gallery, NEMAA, and St. Paul Art’s collective. Networks with other artists sharing tips and ideas.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
During the Pandemic, my major issue was getting people to understand My Photozaics. My Photozaics are a must-see in person. The images do not do my art justice as you don’t get the full details and texture. I did find that doing a video helped people understand what I create.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I have two collections:
Sanctuary for the Soul
How can I construct an image that moves beyond the surface? Photozaics, of course! My award-winning Photozaics are inspired where Van Gogh’s textures meet Ansel Adam’s simplicity near the intersection of Bob Ross’ healing vibes. This technique is a labor-intensive multi-step process and starts with my journey into nature, recording the landscapes that spark my eye, whether rolling hills or a babbling brook. After modifying the composition, I take the print and head to the stained-glass shop to find matching colors. I cut the glass by hand, taking smaller shards and placing them in a rock tumbler to remove sharp edges, while larger pieces are sanded by hand and assembled into the frame. Grouting finishes the artwork allowing the detail of each cut glass shape to add texture to my art. Art heals the mind, body, and soul. Research has shown a correlation between participating in cultural activities, like Crafting, visiting art galleries, and attending concerts have increased rates of good health. By creating Photozaics, I hope to connect with you through a multi-sensory mixed media presentation that tickles sight and encourages your touch.
Spirit of the land
Every day Nature tells a different story, and I notice her subtle hints urging me to wander and capture the ever-changing scenery. I call this collection” Spirit of the Land,” documented in infrared black and white photography. They portray an otherworldly, surreal, almost dreamlike state that feels three-dimensional. When I accept Mother Nature’s invitation, I travel the world with my camera. I get my inspiration through texture, lines, and contrast. Dependent upon the offerings from Nature and my mood, this compilation of photographs is made up of diverse landscapes like bodies of water, farms, back roads, mountains, rolling hills, lush forests, to urban murals of decay and human Abandoned structures. Images in this collection have messages that need to be told, may it be a warning to change our ways or as a sign of hope, giving the viewer a new appreciation of Nature’s murals with different perspectives that they may not have noticed before.
My bond with Mother Nature started as a child, from my parents’ love of travel via RV. We believed that the road trip was a part of the journey you can’t get from a plane. The side windows were my TV screen; I would sit and watch the landscape go by. No reruns to watch, only magical views sparking my young imagination as my mind whimsically wandered, absorbing it all in like a sponge! A blissful vista like this stayed with me for my entire life, inspiring my explorations as an adult artist, the long drives and watching the landscape transform before my eyes take me to another conscience plain. These road trips recharge my soul and fuel the creativity that I share with the world in the form of art. I prefer to navigate the less-traveled routes to savor the sights and sounds of Nature, just like I enjoy the scent of lilacs in Spring.
What do you think about luck?
Be a team player when dealing with your business. My art may not be a good fit for a particular gallery or Museum. Still, if you are personable, they will remember you and your art and offer your information to another source. I’ve found this true multiple times in my carrier, and I do this with other artists.
Pricing:
- 499.00
- 1,299.00
- 2,295.00
- 15,000.00
Contact Info:
- Website: https://nmcguirestudio.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nmcguirestudio/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nmcguirestudio/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/nmcguirestudio
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5eaYMlvAPm_xNnmsnqNIzw
