Mentor Anne Packard
American Contemporary Artist
Anne Packard
Anne Packard and I first met in the historic streets of St. Augustine in 2011. She was exhibiting her one-woman show at the Cutter and Cutter Brilliance in Color Gallery.
Mentors Artist, Claire J. Kendrick
Anne complimented some of my paintings that were hanging in the Worley Faver Gallery in 2011. It is a huge honor for any artist when your painting speaks or evokes a reaction……it’s a confirmation and validation that something’s there———–a spark to ignite! Working with Anne in 2012 was essential as experienced eyes can see faults and weaknesses in our painting. The key to learning is to stay open, to hear the suggested fix. I was prepared to roll up my sleeves and work from the gut….face the grit, have thick skin and be prepared to hear the truth! Oh, by the way, they can be a dynamic duo and hard task masters! The pearls of wisdom only happen if you’re prepared to put up with a little grit in the shell. The life of an artist is a solitary profession. Once in a while you find another artist who will help and encourage you. Who will offer advice? That advice is only useful if you truly respect the work of the artist who offers it.
Over the ten day stay, too many books to read were thrust in my direction…….”read this, “oh, you will love this”, “when you get time have a look at this”! The “must try” product list was growing by the day. A savvy I-Pad user, Anne quickly types in a name…..have you ever seen such plagiarism! Entertaining and heated topics such as marketing, galleries, travel, and new paint products, famous artists both living and deceased were debated every evening. Life, love, and art, talked and stories shared……..this has been a special experience and one I treasure. Painting is a lifelong quest and at 80 years of age Anne is passionate and dedicated. I was struck and impressed that her daily quest is to improve her craft as an artist.
Painting can be one of the most heart-breaking and rewarding professions. Anne and Cynthia taught me that “the struggle” is a natural part of the process for a painter. They also taught me about stamina, discipline and fearlessness……the importance of bringing emotion, depth and passion into your work……….and that every brush mark helps define your creative style and helps you find your voice as an artist.
