I Believe In Artists: Linda Todd

Artist Linda Todd

You know I love all things magical and whimsical and the art of Linda Todd definitely fits that description.  So of course I was excited about sharing her work when she agreed to do this feature.  However, I am equally excited to share her words.  I found them to be encouraging and inspiring and I think you will too.  Enjoy!

"Happiness" Art by Linda Todd

Question: I know art speaks its own language but if you had to describe your work in only six words, what would they be?

Linda: My work in 6 words... quirky, colourful, magical, happy, bright, dreamy.

"Spring Equinox" Art by Linda Todd

Question: Who is your favorite artist (in any medium) and how do they inspire you?

Linda: My favourite artist is Marc Chagall and he inspires me by his dreamlike scenes that look so incredibly simple and childlike. He paints from his emotions and always has a story to tell. His use of colour also creates an atmosphere, an intensity which accompanies these magical compositions.  I am drawn to storytelling artists, as opposed to a composition of inanimate objects.

"Follow Your Dreams" Card by Linda Todd

Question: What inspires you to create?

Linda: What inspires me to create is.......my own life which is a series of little stories. My love of nature, flowers, butterflies and my golden hare which is a theme that pops up in my paintings every now and then. I have a love for inspirational sayings and folk art of different countries. There is a creative mix which I work between and depending on how I feel I dip into words or images. Sometimes it's both. I recently designed a series of inspirational cards to inspire and uplift people that is also very important in making my art. I teach in college and inspiring people is my daily job, so it feeds into my art in a big way.

"Butterfly Dreams" Art by Linda Todd

Question: What is your favorite part of your creative process?

Linda: The favourite part of my creative process is sitting in front of a blank canvas or paper with a beautiful range of paints and responding to the way I feel. I do not tend to roughly sketch anything out anymore. I tend to just go for it and see what evolves as it happens. My intuition plays an important part in creating.

Question: What is the most challenging part of your creative process and how do you meet that challenge?

Linda: The only challenge I face is if my energy is low. Experience has taught me not to start anything if I am running on empty. For the results will be poor. The creative flow has to be able to move through you and in a way that it is completely free. Being creative is about knowing yourself and being in tune with what you can and can't do.

"Snowdrop Hare" Art by Linda Todd

Question: And finally, what does "believing in art" mean to you?

Linda: "Believing in art" means to me........follow your heart, be true to yourself and be grateful for the talent you possess. The reason I say this is because if we all start from the premise that it is a gift, and it is to be used in a true and honest way, it will never let you down. Your belief in your abilities will be with you for life and the satisfaction of being able to access your creativity will feed your soul.

Thank you Linda for sharing your magic with us!

To learn more about Linda and her art, connect with her on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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