Medium/Art Form: Visual
When and how did you start making art?
I began seriously practicing my art over Christmas of 2021. My then boyfriend, now husband, caught COVID, so we quarantined instead of visiting family. I had some oil paints from a thrift store and a butter knife (no brushes). That spirals over the last two years into something I am truly passionate about and want to pursue full time.
What inspires your work?
I think I create largely from a place of happiness and curiosity. I delve into forms and textures that I find stimulating and see how far they can be pushed — like attaching 50 brass knobs on a box or boiling acrylic paint.
How would you describe Green Bay/NE Wisconsin’s arts community?
Frankly, I haven’t gotten a chance to experience it much. I moved to Madison from Arkansas in 2020. Art Garage was my first venture into that part of the state! It was incredibly welcoming, and was actually the first time my work had been displayed in a true gallery.
What is the best advice you have for other artists?
You don’t have to have a “brand”. You don’t have to find this one thing you can do over and over. Explore, try things. If it’s authentically what you want to make, people will feel that connection. Someone once told me “you do so many weird things, but they all feel like something you would do.”
Where can people find your work?
Tiktok: @adam_raiford
Instagram: @adamraiford