Today we’d like to introduce you to Barb Stewart.
Barb, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I like to say I’ve been an artist all my life.
I attribute this to my natural father, who was a silversmith and sculptor at one point.
In addition, like most artists and musicians, I’ve had early childhood trauma that I absorbed into the creative process.
My natural mother passed away from rheumatic fever when I was 3 months old. I was adopted by my natural uncle and his wife.
My adoption was arranged before I was born, although I learned about it when I was six years old.
Art and music have always been a part of my life.
I recently learned I have INMI (Involuntary Musical Imagery), basically becoming a musical savant around age 10.
I grew up in the suburbs of Chicago.
In Middle School a representative from the School of The Art Institute of Chicago gave a presentation about the school.
It was then I decided that I’d like to go there. As fate would have it (and with my parents sacrifices) I transferred to SAIC after my AA degree from the College of Dupage in Glen Ellyn, IL.
My BFA is from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago with a major in Ceramics/Textile Design.
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?
It has definitely not been a smooth road. I’m an introvert, and attracted to extroverts with extreme personalities and all things ‘different’.
My name means strange or unusual, so there is some consolation in that!
This has led to many struggles throughout my life.
However, my life with music and art have been consistent.
I moved to Texas in 2015 to truly be my authentic self.
The struggles now are mainly financial.
The move was definitely culture shock, but one I found appealing.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’ve gone from ceramic artist to gourd art whisperer, it was as interesting transition.
When it came together two ways almost simultaneously, I decided I’d better pay attention to that.
I continue to do both two 2D and Gourd Art at local art exhibits and vending events.
I am a member of several art organizations and the former President of the Denison Arts Council.
I learned a lot by volunteering on several local committees when I first moved to Texas.
I am also a member of the Dallas Gourd Patch. There are such groups, conventions, and even a magazine in which I’ve been fortunate enough to have a tutorial published.
I’m self-employed at this point in my life, so that remains challenging.
I continue to pursue what I’m passionate about.
Gourd Art is a niche field. Every gourd and gourd artist is different so
that keeps the enthusiasm and uniqueness of the craft alive.
I also teach classes,
educating the public about the plant and its history while creating a unique work of art!
The fact that there are over 50 types of gourds to do art with is something that Never ceases to amaze me.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
I’ve branded myself as Artofthelostandfound/Barb Stewart – artist
I do a lot of found object 2D art so that is where the name originated.
I create various sizes of owls and cats routinely, along with ornaments, keychains and jewelry.
I can be reached via my socials (Fb, Instagram, TicTok), also at barbstewartartist@gmail.com
Pricing:
- Basic Gourd ornaments $15 ea
- Larger owls & cats $30 ea.
- Larger birds, Apple Gourds $45 ea
- Largest work $125 ea
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artofthelostandfound?igsh=MWtmYTIyZHM0dG8zcQ==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1CLaVvfo9j/
Image Credits
All images- Barb Stewart
