Meet Whitney and Patrick | Artists

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

Hi Whitney and Patrick, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
We’re more of a collaborative art project than a business but we have a simple belief: art is for everyone regardless of class, race, gender, etc. through our free art scavenger hunts we’re able to add to that thought process and belief.

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.
Whitney (collages): I grew up in rural Missouri where art supplies aren’t readily available and the art scene isn’t huge. So I used what I had around the house which were old Martha Stewart magazines for the most part. I love the idea of using recycled pieces to create something that someone will hang in their home. I like that my pieces make people smile. I’d love the world to know who we are and why we exist, and I would love for more people to join in on our free art scavenger hunts.

Patrick: Growing up I lacked talent when it came to more conventional forms of artistic expression such as drawing and painting. When I discovered photography it became for me the form of self expression that I assumed other artists had always enjoyed. When I met Whitney she showed me a new way to share the beautiful things we’ve made with the world, with no barriers of price or professionalism to stand in the way.

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?
Whitney: I’m a huge Meow Wolf fan. It’s such a magical place and I love taking out of town friends there. A little closer to home I take people up the canyon to the Mishawaka, biking on the trails in town, mountain cafe for breakfast, the farmers market, and The Lyric.

Patrick: I’ve gotta second Meow Wolf, it is the best art experience out there. When it comes to food.. Mountain Cafe and Slyce, best patty melts and pizza around. Then I’d take them along the bike trails, it’s incredible how far they can take you without ever having to touch a road. After that a drink at The Atrium or The Lyric, both of which deserve credit not just for their drinks and entertainment, but for all they do to support local artists.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
We want to thank the community who has been extremely supportive, from joining in on the scavenger hunts to donating frames, we couldn’t do it without our amazing community.

Instagram: @focofreeartfriday