First, a Watercolorist
I dreamed of being an artist in the mid-70's when in high school, but fear held me back. In 1999, when I thought the world might end during the Y2K scare, I mustered the courage to enroll in a community college watercolor class. I've been painting ever since.
There have been seasons of commissioned house portraits, textures, figures, flowers, animals and more. I’ve entered a lot of shows, taught a lot of workshops, set up my booth at a lot of festivals and earned signature membership in Watercolor Society of NC and Southern Watercolor Society.
Then, Originator of Alcohol Ink Dreamscaping
By 2009, I began to wonder if the grass was greener in other mediums and took a variety one day workshops. One was Alcohol Inks. Like many, I became mesmerized with this transparent, flowing medium. Out of a spirit of play, Alchohol Ink Dreamscpaping emerged. I received several requests to teach my process. In 2013, I wrote a guide to Alcohol Ink Dreamscaping and created five instructional DVDs. The fascination and popularity of Alcohol Inks continues to grow. And while I still find Dreamscaping fun and relaxing, I realized I wasn’t growing as an artist and needed a new challenge. Once again, I began experimenting in other mediums.
Next, Oils
In June of 2017, I began studying traditional oils, a medium I had always respected and admired. Today, I’m enjoying working in all three mediums, each challenging and rewarding in different ways.
The favorable response to my art has been deeply gratifying. Someone wanting to take one of my paintings home with them brings me joy and an eagerness to create the next one.
I was 43 years old in 1999 when I took that first watercolor class. If I could go back in time and talk to the high school student that I was, I would tell her creativity takes courage and to believe in herself. Since that’s not possible, I wrote, She Lost Her Muse.
Today
At 68, I’m thankful to rise early and begin almost every day painting. I strive to always be learning and experimenting. My artwork reflects my love for animals and nature.
I don’t offer prints of my originals because I believe there is a certain energy in original art that I want to pass on. I feel a sense of completeness each time someone invests in one of my paintings. I am grateful my efforts will bring joy to others, today and for years to come.
Thank you for your interest in June Rollins ART.