I often get asked what inspires me as an artist. It’s never an easy answer because it really depends on so many factors. It could be a person, a season, a theme, a color…. But what I would say is as an artist it changes all the time as my art and creativity evolves and transforms. A bit like a person; we all grow, age and evolve as life goes on and we discover so many different versions or chapters of ourselves as we learn and experience life. 

I have so many things I’d still like to explore and achieve as a person and as an artist. I started my fluid art journey 5 years ago and became a full-time artist and creator a couple of years ago after leaving my full-time employment. I’ve discussed this before so you probably know the story. I thought it would be fun this month to discuss inspiration with two of my most favorite artists, two people who have also inspired me over the years, who provide encouragement and inspiration to hundreds of people around the world, the founders of Smart Art Courses – Molly Leach and Rinske Douna. 

Molly and Rinske need no introduction… they are well known and respected artists in the fluid art world and I really wanted to know what inspires them. 

Molly reflects and says, “When I was younger, I was very inspired by impressionism. One of my favorite artists at the time was Georges Seurat. I actually wrote an essay on pointillism to get into the magnet high school i went to! It was about how the small pieces were important on their own, but when taken as a whole had so much more power and meaning. Now that I am established I don’t think it is so much WHO inspires me, but WHAT. I am inspired by nature. Colors in nature, the flow and motion of water. All of those elements can be found in my artwork. I also find creativity from watching others paint and seeing their passion for what they do. It motivates me to continue to grow as an artist”. 

I really feel what Molly says; and I can relate so much to the what! I also love nature and always look at nature when I experience a creative block. Nature is a healing element for me and it helps ground me and gives me the energy and strength to explore new ideas. 

Rinske was so enthusiastic about her current inspiration, she said, “Hands down, it’s Victoria Rose Park. The way she blends abstract and realism is just phenomenal. Her approach to painting in nature, with such intensity and authenticity, is incredible…  Her videos aren’t just great to watch; they’re an experience. She inspires me endlessly.”

Nature is such an inspiration for all three of us and it’s amazing to see how different all of our work is yet it’s inspired by one of the main themes. It just goes to show how dynamic and unique nature can be when inspiring artists like Molly and Rinske. 

I was interested to also hear how Molly and Rinske continue to grow. Growth is necessary as an artist; whether it’s about the technique, skill or storytelling through art and creativity. I really wanted to know how they stay fresh with their ideas. 

Molly said, “I am continually asking “how” and “why” and “what-if” in my artwork. I love doing experiments and those lead me down a path to experiment more and to keep the ideas fresh. I also love hearing from those that follow me in the art community of what they would like to see. As a content creator on top of being an artist, I have the ability to connect with others in a meaningful way and it brings me joy to be able to give people what they would like to see and enjoy.”

Rinske added, “It’s a lot like life itself… you keep evolving, changing, and discovering new paths” Rinske also said that one thing was key for her and it was all about staying curious.

So… staying curious and asking the “what if” seems to be a huge factor for both Molly and Rinske. I think it’s safe to say we can really see that from the creations they continue to make. So it got me thinking, being a successful artist and creator, and already having achieved so much, what is also on the “to do” list for both of them in the years ahead? 

Molly said, “I am working on a few new art tools. I have already created my level-up art stands that thousands of people use. I would like to create some other tools that I find useful so that others can use them as well. I have 2 new ideas for courses to teach others the techniques that I have mastered and/or created. I would love to be featured in a magazine, or a solo show exhibit at some point in my future as well.” 

Rinske continued and with a big smile said, “Oh, big dreams here! First up, having my very own art supply line would be absolutely amazing, imagine having products specifically created for exactly how I paint. And second, I’d love to have my artwork hanging in a well-known museum. It feels ambitious, but I’m determined to make it happen.” 

As we continued to chat about things I couldn’t wrap up the discussion without asking one more question… and that was about any advice both Molly and Rinske would like to share that has been invaluable to them as an artist over the years.

Molly said, “When you are moved to create, do it. Don’t be afraid of putting yourself out there. Overcoming that fear has helped create the artist and the person that I am today.”

Rinske agreed and said, “Trust that you’ll find your style, because you really will. It might take some time, and sometimes it will feel like you’re searching endlesly, but keep painting, experimenting, and trusting yourself. Eventually, your unique style emerges, and it’s the best feeling ever.”

A big thank you to both Molly and Rinske for their time and insight this month. Wow what a treat!  And a special “Happy Birthday” to Molly who celebrates her birthday this month in June. 

What or who inspires you? Let me know! 

Check out Mark’s course on Smart Art Courses: Mindfully Creative: Art Techniques for the Mind, Body and Soul
www.smartartcourses/art-for-mindfulness 

Mark Ratcliffe from Mark J Ratcliffe Art: Abstract Artist & Creator; Certified Meditation Coach and
Wellbeing Practitioner.  Written in his own words @MarkJRatcliffeArt / markjratcliffeart@gmail.com