Meet April Watson | Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with April Watson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi April, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I’m a Colorado native who grew up hiking the mountains, fishing, skiing and learning to love all the beautiful seasons. Fall is my favorite for many reasons, and the leaves here do not disappoint. My Grandmother had a huge influence on my love for all forms of art. She was a wildlife artist but experimented with many mediums. One of my favorite memories is sitting in her basement (by the glass back doors) paintbrush in hand as she walked me through my first landscape painting. Purple, blue and green acrylic hues on paper. That’s where it all started and I’ve been playing with paint ever since. Painting is part of me and I often refer to it as a form of meditation. With fluid art as part of my process I’m able to move paint around freely while letting go of my to-do lists and worries. I’m able to be present in the moment and connect with my higher-self. My hope is to continue to share my passion for fluid art and the powerful healing possibilities it holds.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m a mixed-media artist who loves texture. In my paintings you will find hidden stones, metal pieces or trinkets adding to it’s story. I combine multiple techniques to arrive at the finished look I’m trying to achieve. My art derives from emotion in hopes that I bring emotion to others. I hope that my paintings promote thought provoking conversations among families and communities. For instance, if you drive through Commerce City, by the new N-Line you will see “Float Free” wrapped around two utility boxes. A humming bird sits in the middle with a gold hand beneath it as if suggesting that we, human beings, have the power to set this endangered bird free. I see this as a symbol that when we work together the possibilities are endless. Also, I’m a huge advocate for supporting small businesses. “Float Free” has a temporary home at A Natural Way in Ft. Lupton. I look forward to this partnership and hope to bring fluid art classes to Northern Colorado.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would take them to Steakhouse 10, a quaint restaurant in Englewood. Reservations would be for upstairs, by the window, where there are only a few tables surrounding an older chimney/fireplace. Artwork with warm vibrant colors decorate the walls. The best part is we will feel like we are part of a secret club from the excellent service and stories to experience. Before their trip was complete, a few stops would need to be made in Bailey. A morning drive through Guenella Pass to view the changing colors of our fall leaves. Before heading to lunch, a quick stop at Geneva Creek Creations to meet the lovely Linda and check out all the gems she has to offer in her adorable shop. For Lunch…a hot dog at the famous Coney Island. Yes, it is in the shape of a hot dog. A short walk next door takes you to Fun and Funky Art Gallery filled with unique gifts, all created by local artists. With two locations you are sure to find the perfect gift to remember colorful Colorado.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to thank my husband, Justin for always believing in me. I will forever remember him surprising me with my very first large canvas, 48″ x 36″. Thinking back on that moment still brings a smile to my face. I felt nervous, as I usually painted on a smaller scale up until that point but I was also extremely excited to get started. I’m grateful that he nudged me in the direction of pursuing my dreams. I wouldn’t be where I am today without his continued support and guidance.

Website: www.wildrayneart.com
Instagram: @wildrayneart
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