We are so proud of our Make Art That Sells Alumni, and we are pleased to feature a series of spotlight interviews showcasing their successes and artwork. We’ve asked them to share how the MATS courses have helped them learn and grow. You can see more Alumni Success stories here
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Today, we have an interview with Pat Scheurich. Pat has taken MATS A, Illustrating Children’s Books, Bootcamp 2017 and entered the Global Talent Search.
Tell us a little about how you got started in art and design
Since I was a grade schooler, I have had a pencil and sketchbook in hand. When I was young, I used to sit at the edge of my neighborhood, in the desert outside of Phoenix Arizona and draw the cactus and birds. Both of my parents dabbled in painting as hobbies, so I had lots of encouragement. High School art classes were my favorite and I went on to University to get a Bachelor of Fine Art degree in Design. I worked for advertising agencies out of school and did some teaching. Later, I painted murals and then started doing studio artwork.
Lilla always says “People buy your joy.” What brings you joy?’
My inspiration is found in simply everything. We are surrounded by living things and other objects that I am compelled to record in my own, unique fashion. Plants, in particular, have always been a focus of my work and wherever I am, I know where the closest botanical garden is!
Which is your favorite market(s) to design for and why?
I love working on canvas and wood panels of many different sizes and wall art has been a favorite market of mine for awhile. I like combining many layers and textures in my pieces which incorporate collage, acrylic, pencil, and pen. Since I create art for art shows and various venues, wall art seems to be a great fit right now.
What are you working on currently?
I am currently working on an alphabet design that would work as a poster and possibly a children’s book. I am also working on creating pitches for book publishers using some of my characters and what I learned in the Illustrating Children’s book course with Lilla and Zoe. I am also getting ready to create another group of paintings for local shows that I am part of. Lastly, I have work that is licensed for needlepoint canvases and I’m always creating pieces for that market.
What are some of the key things you have learnt from the MATS experience?
Key things I’ve learned. I have learned how very important creating icons are and how adaptable they can be in so many different ways. My sketchbook has become my best friend!
How have the classes helped your artwork evolve /grow?
Classes have helped me in so many ways. Drawing so many different subjects has helped my drawing ability grow, reading and hearing about all the ways that art can be used has fired up my imagination, and just being part of a group of like minded artist is tremendously supportive.
Any aha moments during MATS you would like to share?
My aha moment came during my first MATS A class when I realized that I LOVE making art that sells! This class has been the first one that has practically addressed that for me.
What are your key successes since taking a MATS class?
I have signed a contract with GreenBox Art + Culture to have them reproduce some of my art. I’m very excited about it and that might not have happened without information given in MATS A.
How would you describe taking a MATS class to a fellow artist looking to develop their art?
MATS classes are a very organized way of helping you work on developing your art and it focuses you on some very key elements that are the building blocks of creating work that can be successful in commercial markets. I think it can also be useful in generally improving your work regardless of the reason you produce it.
What is your dream gig for your artwork?
Dream gig. Illustrating children’s books and fabric design are my dreams. I realize I’m beginning to have the building blocks to make both happen.
See more work here: Website | Instagram | Facebook
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Would you like to experience the Make Art That Sells classes yourself? Browse our live and self-paced classes here
Graduates of our courses have gone on to win work from clients such as Hallmark, Robert Kaufman Fabrics, Oopsy Daisy, Uppercase Magazine, West Elm, Midwest CBK, and more. It is industry learning that works in the real world. Find out more HERE and start today!
