We’re looking forward to introducing you to Cari Beattie. Check out our conversation below.
Cari , a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Three days a week I am skating with the Bradentucky Bombers Roller Derby Team at the Ellenton Sports Complex. Joining a group of strong, uniquely skilled, and primarily queer individuals has been vital to my physical and mental wellbeing. As an artist I can easily get stuck in my head, so it’s important to connect with the body and be more present.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a multidisciplinary artist that primarily works with traditional materials such as oil paint, textiles and soft pastels. Cultivating a deep emotional response between the artwork and viewer is pertinent to my artistic practice. As someone who wears their heart on their sleeve, I aim to make others feel comfortable exploring that experience through my art.
In order to make my work more financially accessible and expand my portfolio, I also draw digitally by hand. Currently, commissions are open on my website, allowing individuals to request portraits of people or animals. Special requests are available if an individual has a unique idea they would like brought to fruition.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
The Fine Arts department at Ringling College of Art and Design helped set up the foundation for my work ethic and how I interpret the art world. I was frequently encouraged to view all parts of an artwork whether it be superficial or intricate qualities. This in turn allows for more room to be open to new possibilities and create complex work.
This perspective is equally important in evaluating who you work with in businesses or communities. Each person you meet plays a part in your journey and should be treated with respect. We need other people in order to function on a fundamental level just as much as we need their support in business endeavors.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
Fear of failure; mistakes are the one thing that never fails to support growth. So many opportunities have slipped through my fingers because I was too afraid to take on an unfamiliar endeavor. In order to overcome these issues I have reframed how I look at anxiety inducing situations such as, social engagement, making new art, and entering a new venue. Some of my mantras are “the worst they can say is no,” “a wrong choice is better than never choosing,” and “do it scared!”
Discomfort is an unavoidable aspect for developing as a person and artist. Some of this discomfort may be the need for building better personal habits. I’ve started walking my dog first thing in the morning, using my phone with intention (no doomscrolling for hours), and exercising more. This in turn regulates my mood and self-esteem which helps make a more confident artist!
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the most frustrating realities to accept is that art school does not guarantee good jobs immediately. Most of the artists I know are working a job unrelated to their field. While it can be disorienting to find the big life choices you made at eighteen didn’t evolve into the life you expected at twenty-three, I still gained useful tools in college. Such as art history, which plays a big part in understanding culture, society, and how we function as a collective. This insight is useful to inform oneself on trends and where we might be headed.
Art school doesn’t immediately mean selling all your work at big galleries, but it does mean huge connections to artists throughout the world. Our department head made a point of connecting us with curators, art financers, and many iconic artists. At the end of the day it’s how these resources are used, the final goal isn’t going to be handed on a silver platter.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: Have you ever gotten what you wanted, and found it did not satisfy you?
Towards the end of my senior year of college I couldn’t wait to graduate and see the world. This vision was quickly shattered once the realization came, “I don’t know what I want to do.” The white cube gallery space wasn’t appealing, suddenly I didn’t have my walkable campus facilities and studio. It felt like a huge setback which sent me into a depression.
Over the past year and a half my art community has expanded thanks to
Oscura in Bradenton, FL, a hotspot for a budding art community with their fantastic live music, queer events, markets, and a monthly art club! Also, mutual aid group Queer Expression in St Pete, FL has provided the opportunity of weekly figure drawings and even pose as a model myself. Taking time to attend local events pays off, not only for making new connections in business endeavors, but your overall well-being. While some artists would rather be in a hobbit hole and paint all day, I crave more balance. Life is too short to not be curious.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.caribeattie.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caribeattie/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caribeattie/
Image Credits
Tori Silva
