Ray has been attending the art group for the past 5 years. He is an artist, a neighborhood activist, a loyal pigeon feeder, a gardener, and a good friend to the homeless.
How do you come up with ideas for your paintings ?
I like to look at different books and pictures to get design ideas. I really like this Art Deco pattern design book from the 1940s that we have in the room. The patterns and colors are perfect together. I also like to experiment with abstract art.
What materials do you like to use?
I usually use acrylic paint, sometimes markers and stamps.
Did you like to make art when you were young ?
Yes, but my older brother was the artist. He was really talented and worked as a commercial artist for a long time. I guess I thought art was just for people like him. I didn't know I could paint until I started doing it here at McAuley House.
What do you want to say about your creative process ?
When I sit down and paint I feel relaxed. I like to find a picture of something that inspires me. I might draw it first, think about it, and then paint it the next week. Some of my paintings took a long time. I don't rush anything.
How do you like the group ?
I like the group a lot. We have a lot of fun and I learn new things about different artists. I like the show we have every year. The first time I sold a painting- I couldn't believe it. I felt great !
The group is like a family- sometimes we argue, but we try to get along. My friend, Linda, gave me one of her paintings for my new apartment to cheer me up. It feels good when people care about you.
