Get to Know: Lori Siebert
We can't wait for this repeat Smiley favorite retreat, Junk Assemblage July 6-12! Get to know our fabulous teaching artist Lori Siebert:
Junk Assemblage | July 6-12
Get to know our sensational teaching artist Lori Siebert:
What's your favorite art supply? I could never pick one favorite. But lately, I’m LOVING Tombow markers, Carandache Neo Colors and Acryla Gouache.
What do you love about teaching? I LOVE seeing how creativity comes to life. And I LOVE being with kindred spirits. Friendships are formed in my retreats that provide lasting support and community.
What's the strangest thing that's ever inspired your art? I see inspiration EVERYWHERE! When I travel… I love to look down, up and all around. A graphic sewer grate, the color of a door, graffiti on the wall… all of it can provide inspiration.
Is there a myth about being an artist that you'd like to bust? Many of my retreat attendees will say, “I’m not creative” or “I’m not an artist.” I believe that creativity lives in everyone. With a bit of curiosity ,passion and lots of PRACTICE… artistic skills can grow just like an athlete or a musician who works at their craft.
Describe your ideal studio space. I dream of having an art barn. The outside would be wildly, colorfully painted. The inside would be spacious and full of light. It would have a station for all of my interests… sewing, sculpting, painting, making. It would have fun vintage storage pieces and cozy couches and chairs.
What's the weirdest thing you've made? I’ve been obsessed with making birds made with “junk” ever since Covid. My “brush birds” use old paint brushes for its tail feathers.
What's your favorite drink or snack to fuel your creativity? I drink iced tea all day long. My favorite snacks are cheese popcorn, almonds and caramel M & M’s.
What job would you be terrible at? Anything to do with sports. I recently went to a tailgate and felt like a total foreigner. The only sports I’ve played are tennis and pickle ball. I would also be horrendously bad at anything to do with math.
What animal best represents your personality? One of my most favorite creatures to draw is a bird. I suppose birds are my spirit animal. To me, they represent pure joy. I like a bird, LOVE to travel. Birds are freely able to flit here and there, taking in the world all around them.
Don't forget, at the Smiley Manse, not only will you make GREAT art, you'll also make GREAT friends! From vibrant still life setups to shared laughter over a cup of cofffee, our art retreats are all about connecting with your creative side and with each other. Whether you’re painting, sketching, or simply soaking in the inspiration around you, there’s something magical about this space and the people who fill it.
We hope you'll join Lori (and your new creative community) for Junk Assemblage or one of our other fabulous retreat leaders this season. See you at The Smiley 💛