Lynnea Washburn

How did you become an artist?

After college graduation, I began to look for opportunities for a career in art.  It wasn’t easy;

in fact, it took ten years to figure out!  Funny thing was, it was my love for writing (which

viewed as a muse) that opened a door for me at a greeting card company.  I began asWriter,anthen moved into an Art Director position.  After several years, a move brought my family and I to Washington State.  This is where I began working as an illustrator.

Did you go to art school?

   I attended San Jose State University in northern California, from which I have a BA/Art and a MA/Painting.

Was there anyone that influenced you in becoming an artist?

 There were a couple of special teachers I had early on that encouraged me to develop my talent and pursue a career in art.

Artists who have influenced my work have varied over the years depending on personal investigations and stylistic changes.   Some are Richard Diebenkorn, Wayne Thiebaud, Claude Monet, Winslow Homer, Andrew Wyeth, Sam Francis, and Rothko among others.

What inspires you?

    I often find inspiration in nature, random textures, and textile patterns.  I also find inspiration in things seemingly unrelated to the task at hand… it could be something like exploring a medium I don’t usually work with (like clay or wax)… or it could the written word like a poem or book, or even a personal journey I may be walking through.  Ultimately it is all fuel, and makes its way back to the surface...that is to say, my painting.

Would you like to share your process?  

     My process begins with written thoughts then to pencil sketches and to watercolor painting on paper.  Typically, I will paint a number of coordinating pieces such as icons, textures and patterns, then scan them into Photoshop, and use it as a design tool to put the pieces together in a number of different layouts. In the early concept stages I also think of what products the artwork might be suited for, which helps me develop the right amount of coordinating pieces.

What types of markets do you create art for?

    The types of markets I illustrate for – primarily licensed artwork for product (see #11), although I have also done some portraits on commission, and I enter a biennial art competition that benefits cancer survivorship.

Are there links where more of your art can be seen?

    My work can be seen at www.lynneawashburn.com, and lynneawashburn.wordpress.com/

Do you do other things regarding art...like teaching?

    Other than working as a licensed artist, I teach a creative, visual art approach to bible study in my newly expanded Studio B (“FaithArt Studio”).  It employs creative expression as a means to gain biblical understanding and uses art mediums that all women, no matter what level, can master.

Do you pursue other creative interests like writing or music?

   Other creative interests: I love to write; whether it be journaling, poetry, lesson plans, or jotting down short story plots (although have not attempted to write one…yet). 

Where can your art be seen?

  You can find my designs on assorted Gift and Home Décor products, Home Lighting, Fabric, Paper plates and napkins, Flags, Rugs, Greeting Cards, Wall Décor, and Calendars.  They typically retail in independent gift stores, mid-tier chains, and the occasional mass-market channel.

What do you love best about what you do?

   I thing I love best about what I do...wow, what a question.  I would have to say the best part is the act of creating something new that didn’t exist before I picked up a brush.  I feel blessed to be able to use how God designed me...for provision, expression, and connection with others.