Interview with Melanie Bott [melaniebott]

Melanie Bott [melaniebott]

ART

What do you do? How do you define yourself as an artist?

I mainly work with ceramics and painting. My love is making clay sculptures. I define myself as a growing artist, because I know that I still have a lot to learn and I will never shut down the possibility to expand my knowledge or skills. I also know that life's obstacles will allow me to grow and change as an artist.

How is an idea born? For you, what is inspiration?

I think that ideas are born from one simple concept. It may start with an action verb, or an image, and then spreads from there. I feel like I get inspiration from everywhere; ads in magazines, scenery that I have seen, conversations I have, etc.

What role does technology play in your creative process?

I use technology to expand my knowledge on contemporary art. It really helps inspire me. For my sculpture work specifically, I look at a lot of architecture on the internet to stir up my creativity.

When do you get your best ideas?

I get my best ideas when I have a lot of alone time, for example in the shower, or driving in the car, but contrary to that I also get great ideas when I have talked to fellow artists and bounced them back and forth.

When and how did you begin to see yourself as an artist?

I did not start actually seeing my self as an artist until I got to college. I always made art when I was younger and through high school, but I always said I was just creating art, not actually an artist. When I came to college I began to really expand my skills and that is what made me feel like I fit the title.

How should a work of art be evaluated?

Works of art should be evaluated with an unbiased opinion. They should be evaluated by their design elements, and what makes it pleasing to the eye.

Is art necessary?

I think art is extremely necessary. Art can not only send out messages, and start movements, but it can also help individuals increase their psychological well-being.

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