Q&A With Kelsey Overstreet
Sparks: What inspires your work?
Overstreet: It is difficult to pinpoint concrete inspiration for my work. I do know that I hold mental space for how we process being a human in the world today and this gives me endless material to navigate via paint. Movement is a huge part of my “research” and walking has aided in my conceptual and visual wanderings. I am really interested in what we take in both subconsciously and consciously… how that information shows up in our work. It’s a wonderful practice full of fluid curiosity, questions and problem solving.
Sparks: What do you hope to achieve with your work?
Overstreet: My painting practice is a magical space where I am constantly challenged and discovering new things both about the world around me, the material I use and the problems I solve to complete a painting. This process is incredibly grounding for me. My very basic hope is that people take the time to engage with the work and also leave feeling a little more alive, present and whole.
Sparks: What methods/mediums do you use in your work?
Overstreet: I use acrylic on canvas. I bounce back and forth between primed and unprimed canvas. I use a lot of non-traditional methods and incorporate spray paint, oil sticks, pencil and charcoal as well.
Sparks: How do you see your artwork transitioning over time, and down the line?
Overstreet: I think the unknown of how it will transition is what keeps me coming back to the studio. A wonderful mystery.
Sparks: What is the most important advice you would want to share with young, aspiring artists?
Overstreet: If art chooses you then it’s your duty to keep showing up. Ask hard questions, pursue what you love and don’t forget to take care of yourself in the process.
Sparks: What music do you listen to when creating artwork?
Overstreet: I painted in silence for most of my painting career. During the pandemic I started listening to ambient music with my AirPods. The noise canceling + mellow music created a wonderful cocoon to work within. One song in constant rotation is Enter One by Sol Seppy.
Sparks: What do you hope for the future of art?
Overstreet: As devices continue to take over I hope for a deeper appreciation of seeing art in person, funding for art in schools and inclusivity for under represented artists around the world.