Artist Spotlight: Samantha Cortese
In anticipation of our upcoming exhibit, Raw Form, I'm excited to introduce you to one of its contributing artists and curators, Samantha Cortese. Samantha is a renowned abstract expressionist painter whose work is characterized by bold colors and dynamic textures. As we delve into the world of Raw Form, we'll explore Samantha's artistic process, inspirations, and the unique perspective she brings to this collaborative project.
SAMANTHA CORTESE
I have to start with some spark of inspiration. Maybe it's a beautiful color palette or texture I saw that day, maybe it's seeing a space and having a feeling of what might look perfect for it.
What initially drew you to painting as a medium?
Funny enough I dove into painting when my husband and I were remodeling a bathroom and I had a specific vision for what I wanted as colorful art in the space. From the moment I picked up a brush I fell in love. I’d never felt strong when it came to drawing so I hadn’t even given painting a thought as an option for my creativity. But once I started experimenting and learning I realized it was a wholly different process and I found it very calming and intuitive.
What is your creative process like?
For me, I have to start with some spark of inspiration. Maybe it's a beautiful color palette or texture I saw that day, maybe it's seeing a space and having a feeling of what might look perfect for it. So once I’m inspired I alway create a custom mixed color palette. I find that preparing the colors before lets me paint more fluidly. This also allows me to create harmony within my color palettes. Then I jump into painting- that means cranking up my favorite moody music and throwing on those first layers of paint. My process typically takes multiple players of paint and other textured mediums. From there I try to let my intuition guide me as the painting finds its voice and interest.
What are you most proud of in your artistic career?
I think my ability to be fearless in going after the project and careers that I want. I’m proud that this didn't seem like a path at all for me just a few years ago. But once I discovered my love of creating abstract paintings I fully believed in my abilities despite being self taught. I sought out galleries to show in, I made connections with interior designers, and I forged on through trial and error. And I think by having that positive outlook and fearless determination I’ve been able to achieve so much in my career.
What is your dream project or collaboration?
This is a tough one! I think I would love for my art exhibitions to expand to galleries outside of the Greater Pittsburgh Area. I think it would be a huge next leap and very exciting!
What are you currently working on?
At the moment I’m wrapping up the last of a series of three live painting events where I am collaborating with Sherwin Williams. At the events the host, Sarah Smicker of Sherwin Williams presents the current trending colors to industry professionals like interior designers and while she is explaining the palettes and their purpose I’m next to her bringing those colors to life by creating an abstract landscape in the moment. It's been such a fun collaboration. I also have a few commissions to wrap up before the holidays. THEN it’s on to creating for the RAW FORM Exhibit! (Tick tock!)
What advice would you give to aspiring painters?
Paint WHAT you love, and HOW you love. Yes, I think learning the basics of color theory, balance, composition and such are essential, but what will really make you flourish is to find what makes your art special- that thing that is intuitive to you and how you create- and leaning in fully to that. Your audience will find you once your style has developed.
