At just 23 years old, Tanner Newman has already established herself as a talented surrealist artist, drawing inspiration from visionaries like Jim Henson and René Magritte, as well as her personal connection to her older sister and grandmother. Originally from Chicago, with a French background on her grandmother's side, Tanner’s art blends surrealism with a touch of French impressionism, offering a unique, whimsical perspective on the world. In this interview, Tanner shares insights into her creative process, artistic influences, and the message behind her works as she continues to forge her path in the world of contemporary surrealist art.
First of all, can you briefly tell us about yourself for those who don't know you?
I am a 23 year old surrealist artist from Chicago who is heavily inspired by Jim Henson, Rene Magritte, and my older sister Shelby (@protect_your_local_bee).
When did you start art? Do you remember when you first became interested in it?
I first became interested when I was around 4 or 5 years old, and I remember receiving a “Learn How to Draw” book when I was around 7 and I would spend hours copying the pictures in there.
When did your interest in art begin?
My interest in art has always been a part of me for as long as I can remember. My grandmother was a painter and my older sister was really good, and I really admired her and wanted to be just like her.
Where are you originally from and what are the influences of the region where you live or were born on your art?
I’m originally from the United States but I’m French on my grandmother’s side, so my art is heavily influenced by French impressionism and surrealism.
What does your creative process look like?
My creative process always starts with a sketch. I usually sketch with a sharpie or other chunky black marker because I find it easier to bring my imagination to the page with dark bold lines.
After I have a sketch that I’m happy with, I render it in colour either directly in my sketchbook with coloured pencils, or I take a photo of the sketch and upload it to my computer and render it
there. Lastly, once I have a fully rendered sketch I trace it onto my canvas and finally paint it.
What are the subjects you like to paint?
The subjects I most like to paint are people with either animal or other whimsical characteristics, or wherever else inspiration takes me.
Do you think technical perfection is at the forefront of your works, or is the transmission of emotion more important?
What’s most important to me when creating a piece is that I’m happy with it, and works that I’m really proud of seem to resonate well with my audience. I don’t think artists should strive for
technical perfection, that being said I do use a lot of painting techniques but I choose ones that will benefit my vision, not because I think it needs to be perfect.
What message or emotion do you hope to convey through your art?
The message I hope most to convey through my art is that art can be anything you want, an artist can create simply because it’s what they enjoy.
Do you think a work of art should definitely convey a message?
I don’t think art must convey some sort of message, patrons are going to find messages that weren’t intended by the artist. And that is the beauty of art, people will find the meanings that
they need.
Do you use references when creating your paintings? For example, do you determine your own color palette or do you stay true to the original image?
When I’m creating a piece I always use my own preferred colour palette, but I do use references for animals and certain poses.
Do you like using abstract images in your art?
I don’t tend to use abstraction in my pieces, I’m much more into the surrealist art style.
What do you like to do in your daily life other than painting?
Other than painting I like to embroider, sing, and play video games.:)
What is your least favorite type of art?
My least favorite type of art is Dadaism.
Do you like to get feedback when you complete a painting? Do you consult your close circle or social media about the work?
My sister is also a professional artist, so when I am working on pieces I like to get her critiques as well as my close family and friends.
What do you think about making a commissioned painting? If you have done it before, can you tell us a little about your experiences?
I have done commissions before, but I don’t anymore because painting isn’t about making a profit for me and I much prefer painting my own original works.
Where do you see your art in the future?
In the future I just hope I can continue painting. I have joint and mobility issues in my hands, so someday I may not be able to.
Can you describe your art in one sentence?
Renaissance contemporary surrealism.
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