Located in the scenic setting of Kingston, WA, Black Barn Fine Art Studio serves as the creative home for two accomplished artists, Eileen F. Sorg and Derek Gundy. Nestled amidst the natural beauty of the Olympic Peninsula, the studio draws inspiration from the surrounding landscapes and light, influencing the artists’ unique styles and subjects. Both artists bring distinct perspectives to their work, but share a deep connection with nature and the local art community, which continues to shape and energize their creative journeys.
The Role of Place in Creative Expression
For Eileen, the woods around her studio provide constant inspiration, especially as nature is a recurring theme in her work. Living and creating in an environment where she is immersed in her subject matter fosters a deep connection with her art, allowing her to capture the details and spirit of the natural world. Derek, on the other hand, finds magic in the dramatic light and shadows that characterize the Olympic Peninsula. He captures these elements not only in natural scenes but also in architectural illustrations, often evoking memories of special places like Venice and Lake Como.
Moments of Deep Connection Through Art
Both artists have experienced moments where their work resonated profoundly with others. Eileen recalls creating a piece called “The Hungry Reader,” which conveys the empowering message that individuals can shape their own destinies. This work deeply connected with viewers who saw it as a reminder of personal choice and resilience. Derek shares that his art often takes on a personal significance for clients, especially when he is commissioned to illustrate family memories. These experiences offer him the opportunity to translate special stories into visual form, adding layers of meaning to his work.
Overcoming the Challenges of the Creative Process
For Eileen, the challenge lies in knowing when a piece is complete, especially given the highly detailed nature of her work. She has learned to step back and revisit her art with fresh eyes, allowing her to make final decisions with greater clarity. Derek finds it challenging to develop unique ideas, but also enjoys the process of letting his sketches “talk back” to him. By embracing experimentation and removing expectations during the early stages, he allows his creativity to flow more freely.
Advice to Their Younger Selves: Embrace the Journey
Eileen would encourage her younger self to view art as a valid career path, comparable to any other profession. She believes that hard work and dedication to honing one’s craft can lead to unlimited possibilities. Derek’s advice would be to focus less on perfection and more on the joy of the process. He wishes he had allowed himself to experiment and appreciate the creative journey earlier in his career.
Art That Holds Personal Meaning
“The Hungry Reader” is particularly meaningful to Eileen because of its empowering message about choice and resilience. For Derek, his architectural watercolor illustrations of Italy evoke a sense of nostalgia, transporting him back to the vibrant places he has visited. These works are not just visual representations, but emotional connections to past experiences.
Community as a Source of Inspiration
The arts community in North Kitsap has been a constant source of energy and support for both artists. Eileen draws courage and motivation from the encouragement of her peers, while Derek values the relationships he has built over 20 years in the local art scene. The community’s role in shaping their work extends beyond inspiration, providing a supportive environment that validates their creative efforts.
Dream Collaborations: Norman Rockwell and Thomas Schaller
If given the chance, Eileen would collaborate with Norman Rockwell to create a painting that captures the importance of community. She admires Rockwell’s ability to tell stories in a whimsical and narrative way, and believes a joint project would celebrate the power of working together toward common goals. Derek’s ideal collaboration would be with Thomas Schaller, an architect and watercolorist whose work he greatly admires. While his art doesn’t typically involve collaboration, he would love the opportunity to learn from Schaller and understand his creative process.
Visit Black Barn Fine Art Studio at Art in the Woods
Experience the art of Eileen F. Sorg and Derek Gundy at Black Barn Fine Art Studio during the Art in the Woods tour. Discover how the beauty of the Pacific Northwest and the strength of the local art community influence their work. Visit Black Barn Fine Art Studio for more information and explore the creative magic happening in Kingston, WA. Don’t miss the chance to engage with local art and be inspired by the stories behind the works!