Artist Profile: Elis Cooke
Artist: Elis Cooke
Business name: Into the Blystic
Location: Tara, Ontario, Canada
Website & Blog:
Into the Blystic
Into the Blystic blog
Elis, how do you describe your work?
Loosely I would describe my work as mixed media. I am especially focused on acrylic painting, making textural works with handmade paper, monoprinting and bookarts. My business name is a reminder to myself to ‘Follow my bliss’ [Joseph Campbell] as the creative state of making always takes me into the blystic.
What is your creative process like?
Music is vital. I am not much of a planner. My creative process is very much in the moment. I am almost always in ‘what if??’ mode until I see something I haven’t seen before that I want to develop. So I play a lot, layer a lot until something interesting happens. I usually spend the first part of my day in play mode and then choose something to try and finish. I always have lots of work in progress so I can choose the kind of work I feel like doing… I am good at starting things, but the finishing can take awhile.
What kind of training did you have which helped you achieve your current level of artistry?
I am pretty much self taught. I have taken a few courses here and there for specific interests… watercolours, collage and printmaking. I still feel like I am learning and hope to be learning for the rest of my life. It took me a long time to see being self taught as a positive thing. I used to feel inferior about it, but I have come to see that it has worked for me… that the methods and processes I have developed are fully my own, that I have built the skills I needed as I wanted them in a self directed way that made them relevant instead of to meet a course curiculum.
Is there a tool or material that you can’t imagine living without?
Some of my favourite tools include drywall putty knives, syringes, dimensional fabric paint, rice paper and polymer clay.
What inspires you to create?
I am mostly inspired to create because it is necessary to me… it is my favourite state of being… and I am incredibly grateful that I get to spend most of my day doing what I want to.
What inspires you to keep going when the work gets frustrating or tough?
When I get to that point, I often feel I have nothing to lose, so I will try anything… and that playful approach often takes me to the next level… or it is a good time for a nap! and if all else fails, there is always gesso.
What is your best piece of advice for those who would like to rise in their level of artistry?
I think the most important thing is to love what you are doing.
What takes up the majority of your time besides your art?
Writing poetry, yoga, tai chi and reading.
What’s your favorite comfort food?
Chocolate for sure!
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POSTED IN: Artist Profiles, Business tips, Collage, Creativity, Mixed Media, Paper
5 opinions for Artist Profile: Elis Cooke
Valerie Foster
May 8, 2008 at 9:56 am
A very interesting profile, Elis. I’ve been waiting for this. To me, your art is even more impressive and inspiring, knowing that you are self taught. I think you have amazing talent, and I love your work. I feast on it, and am truly inspired. Thanks for the profile.
Julie Mackinder
May 8, 2008 at 6:19 pm
I agree with Val, it’s very interesting to hear about how you work Elis and to know that you’re in the chocolate lovers club like the rest of us :) If in doubt eat chocolate!
It is good to know too that being self taught and willing to explore and experiment can bring a level of skill such as your own. “What if” is a great question!
Rachel Murphree
May 8, 2008 at 8:49 pm
What a lovely interview, and Elis, your pieces are gorgeous! I especially love the last one. very nice!
freebird(Timaree)
May 8, 2008 at 10:54 pm
Beautiful works. Love the use of color
andie
May 9, 2008 at 12:08 pm
What beautiful work, I am jealous. Very inspiring.
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