Today we’d like to introduce you to Carolyn Bowles
Hi Carolyn, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Before being an abstract artist, I was a photographer with my own studio for thirteen years. Then, in 2020 during the pandemic, unable to photograph people, I turned to an art form I loved my entire life—painting. Having saved my old acrylics from the 1980’s, it was easy to get started right away. Mixing up colorful palettes and playing with pencils, markers, crayons, and oil sticks became a daily ritual. In fact, I loved it so much that I quickly expanded my business to include abstract art too! Since, it’s been the biggest joy creating colorful, happy paintings that make people smile.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The big news in my studio this year is that I’ve expanded my business yet again! This time, it’s to merge my photography and abstract art together with my love for travel. Now, these two art forms serve as a foundation for my work—inspired by my travels around the world.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My process includes documenting where I go with my camera. I always have two mirrorless camera bodies and lenses on me in a lightweight bag with other essentials. Then, once back in the studio, I reference my travel photographs to inform my artwork—translating the colors, shapes, lines, and mood to my paintings.
The very first collection I created working this way is based on my travels to Greece a few summers ago. I love how this special series brings the two art forms of photography and abstract art together while highlighting the natural landscape, architecture, culture, food, people and overall vibe of the Greek isles and Athens.
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
Today, my online shop has expanded! I not only sell original paintings, but fine art prints, travel photographs, and stickers along with services such as commissions and live painting for events too.
I also have a website that shares more about me, a blog to highlight my travels and artwork, and a weekly newsletter—The Pen Pal Club—for all the latest events and happenings.
This year, my travels will bring me to Italy! I can hardly wait for all the pizza, pasta, and gelato inspo!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.carolynbowles.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynbowlesco
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolynbowlesco
