Heres the Featured Young Artist interview for the website, her name is Kaylee Stewart.
Interview continued from All About ArtHaus Volume 4 Issue 1, 2011.


What is your earliest art memory?
It's hard to remember my earliest art memory just because I've been making art since before I can remember. However, the memory that stuck with me most clearly is that of my grandfather teaching me how to draw the hourglass shape of a woman's torso, after he had enough of my cartoons characters with straight waists.

What helped you to decide to go into to art as an elective at school?
I had always enjoyed my art classes throughout elementary and middle school, and I also had a lot of encouragement to pursue art from my family. So it was without question that I pick up art classes in high school as well.

What kind of career are you hoping / planning for? Where are you going to get your degree?
This fall I am attending Savannah College of Art and Design with most likely a major in illustration and a minor in advertising. Eventually I hope to receive my MFA there as well. As for a career, I am hoping to be an illustrator for commercials, advertisements, or perhaps a freelance artist.

What was it like to have your art on exhibit at ArtHaus?
I had a great feeling of satisfaction having my art displayed at ArtHaus. To see my artwork in a public place among so many talented young people around Volusia County was a real treat for me.

Who is your most admired artist?
I admire Rene Magritte for the thought provoking nature of his work, and his ability to evoke curiosity and questions in his audience. In terms of technique I admire glass artist Dale Chihuly for his inclusion of others in the making of his stunning designs. I think it's beautiful that he can share his artistic expression with others to make artwork that is truly breath-taking.

Do you have any advice for young artists?
Try everything you possibly can, and don't be afraid to reach out of your comfort zone. Working with a variety of materials and subject matter will bring you closer to finding your own style, and a way of working that best suits your talents and interests.

How would you describe your style or goal as an artist?
Generally in one composition I try to play with multiple subjects in a semi-realistic way. I usually try to create smooth transitions while juxtaposing or blending together different subject matter. My goal is usually to make a statement, or introduce a new perspective to a viewer. I would say my art often takes on a surreal quality.

Who do you feel has helped you realize your artistic self?
From an early age my grandfather and especially my cousin made a huge impact on how I saw myself in relation to art. However, in recent years the credit goes to all my high school art teachers. A culmination of Mr. VanDenberg's enthusiasm, Mr. Moskola's patience and encouragement, and Mr. Bryson's insight have all brought me to a point where I feel like art is my home, and where a world of potential lies.

How has being a part of your high schools art club benefited you as a student/artist?
Unfortunately I did not participate in my high school art club as much as I could have. However, by watching it grow over the years and seeing the community it created among so many different ages and groups of kids, I was able to see that art crosses all social boundaries and has the ability to be shared and enjoyed by everyone.

You were the winner of the SPF Youth Award, how did that make you feel?
I was especially excited to win the SPF youth award considering it was my first time participating in the festival. I've seen the chalk art at the city center every year since I was a kid and I always wanted to participate, so being involved was award enough for me. It was a really great experience and I can't wait to do it again this fall!

Kaylee Stewart and her friend Lindsey Gill



Evolution
Soft Pastel



Gender Gap
Soft Pastel



Owl Eyes & Dr. T.J. Eckleburg
Cante Crayon & Soft Pastel



Perspective
Soft Pastel



Split Personality
Watercolor & Colored Pencil



Tree Hugger
Cante Crayon



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