Carol Taylor
Carol Taylor is an influential figure in New Brunswick's art community, known for her creativity and distinct artistic vision. Her work vividly captures the region's culture, positioning her as a notable local artist. This article explores Taylor's creative philosophy and evolving style, highlighting her impact on the community and enriching our understanding of New Brunswick's cultural landscape.
Inspiration and Creative Process
Taylor's artistry begins with a keen observation of her environment, which she considers a rich source of potential artistic ideas. "Artists need always to be aware of the possibilities that surround us,” Taylor remarks, highlighting the importance of openness to inspiration. This philosophy has led her to create multiple art series, often inspired by everyday experiences that resonate with deeper meanings.
A walk at a relative’s camp ignited one such creative spark when Taylor observed young trees growing from the crevices of large Conglomerate rocks. These trees, emerging from tough conditions, symbolized "strength, tenacity, and perseverance" to her. This observation translated into three distinct art series.
From Personal Encounters to Artistic Expressions
Taylor's personal experiences often morph into significant artistic endeavors. An illustrative series came to life when a friend returned from China, her happiness palpable. Inspired, Taylor embarked on creating "Brave Women," a series portraying women who navigate life's challenges with courage. "Not something I planned to do, but all around me are women who lived their lives the best they could, through all kinds of turmoil, good and bad,” she explains. "This smiling friend, became Nike, goddess of Victory (of overcoming obstacles) who then inspired my newest clay series titled Angels Are Needed.
Evolution of Style
Having been trained by renowned artists like Ted/Edward Campbell and Fred Ross, Taylor’s early works were heavily influenced by traditional realism and her decade-long career as a fashion illustrator. This background imparted a strong inclination towards detailed drawing and realism in her initial artworks. However, discovering clay brought a transformative dimension to her style. "My work changed when I found clay," Taylor reflects, noting how the medium revitalized her artistic approach and introduced new textures and forms into her art.
Signature Works and Artistic Identity
Among Taylor’s creations, the "Brave Women" series stands out with its unique incorporation of unexpected elements like quilt patterns in the backgrounds—a nod to personal history and a reflection of her innovative spirit. She values creativity over repetition, stating, “I really dislike doing the same thing the same way more than once or twice.”
Achievements and Dreams Realized
Taylor’s artistic contributions have been recognized on multiple occasions, with her long-held dream of exhibiting at the New Brunswick Museum coming to fruition several times. "My dream to have a show at the New Brunswick Museum was realized a few times," she shares, marking significant milestones in her career and affirming her status in the local art scene.
The Role of Artists in Society
Taylor advocates for the recognition of artists as integral to every aspect of society—from designing buildings and parks to everyday objects like appliances and clothing. "Look around. An artist of some type has designed our buildings, our parks," she asserts, emphasizing the omnipresent nature of art in daily life.
Continuous Exploration and Community Engagement
Taylor's adventurous spirit is evident in her continual exploration of new mediums. Her current focus is on themes of light and vision, inspired by her contemplations on aging and sight. Beyond her personal work, Taylor values community among artists, stressing the importance of support and collaboration: “If we don’t help each other, who will?” she questions, underscoring the need for a supportive artistic community.
Advice for Emerging Artists
To newcomers in the art world, Taylor offers heartfelt advice: "Don’t give up. Be brave. Make work that makes you feel good to the bottom of your feet." Her career trajectory, from court artist to celebrated local artist with multiple exhibitions, illustrates the rewards of perseverance and passion in the arts.
Legacy and Looking Forward
As Taylor continues to create and inspire, her projects like the upcoming 40 mugs for 40 years of covering NB court trials, made in celebration of being collected by the national Canadian Museum of History in Ottawa. Her relentless pursuit of artistic expression not only enriches her life but also significantly enhances the cultural landscape of New Brunswick, making it a richer place for artists and art lovers alike.
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