Artist Interview - Joy Charde
Every artist has their own unique background, style, experiences, techniques, and perspective. We can all learn from each other, be inspired by one another, and continue to share the joy of art. Here is what artist Joy Charde had to say:
Who are you and what do you do?
Hello! My name is Joy Ting Charde and I am an illustrator, a surface designer, and a daily painter.
Why do you do what you do?
I love to paint. It keeps me grounded and teaches me to let go. It’s also a fun way to spend time with my family.
What are your favorite mediums to work with?
I enjoy using all types of mediums, but my favorite medium (at the moment) is watercolor. I love the way that it has a “mind of its own” and I enjoy the challenge of learning the different ways of using watercolors.
How and when did you get into art?
Growing up in the Philippines, I was influenced by anime cartoons on television. At a young age, I tried to copy the characters that I saw. I think that is when I really got started drawing. I did not focus on painting until the beginning of 2015, and I feel like I’m still learning so much with the painting mediums.
How has your practice changed over time?
My practice has definitely grown over time. I was so afraid to try watercolors, that I challenged myself to do a daily painting practice back on January 1, 2015. Fast forward to the present day and 1,800+ paintings later, I still do my daily art practice and continue to learn.
What’s your favorite piece of art that you’ve created? Why?
Looking back at my paintings, I would have to choose a floral painting one. I think it captures what I try to do with my work – free, loose, and sometimes really messy.
What’s the best piece of art advice you’ve been given?
I think this quote is one of the best advice that I’ve come across in my art journey: “To practice any art, no matter how well or badly, is a way to make your soul grow. So do it.” – Kurt Vonnegut
What’s one art tip/technique you can share with us that you find really helpful?
The tip that has been super helpful for me is to try a daily creative practice. I would say, try a month-long practice, and that can really be helpful in teaching you what you do or don’t enjoy creating. When I initially started back in 2015, it was supposed to only be a month-long challenge, and now years later, I can’t seem to stop.
Do you have any secret tips or techniques you use to salvage a piece when you make a mistake?
My secret tip would be to make marks on top of mistakes. For example, if I’m painting with watercolor and I mess up on a flower, I try to use a colored pencil and make marks over the mistake. It looks like the mark is on purpose. Maybe that’s why I like the messy artwork – the mistakes look like intentional marks.
What is your favorite Strathmore paper? Why?
I love the 500 Series Mixed Media Hardbound Journals. I have at least 10 of them around my space. I like that I can easily carry the journals around and create pretty much anywhere. It’s also a place that I can look back and take notes on.
What art materials could you not live without?
Watercolors, sketchbook, and a round paintbrush
What types of colors are you drawn to for your art and why?
I am always drawn to all the blues! I love the colors of nature also, so the dark greens, burgundy, deep purples are a favorite.
Who are your biggest influences (or who were when you started doing art)?
I enjoy looking back to the masters and learning more from the way they work. A few favorites would have to be Matisse (use of color and mark-making), Van Gogh (experiments and brushwork), Cezanne (use of color and subjects), and Picasso (work ethic and mark-making).
What’s the most common art-related question you get from your followers?
The most common question would have to be – “What kind of watercolors do you use?” I use all sorts of watercolors from inks, pans to tubes, but currently, my favorite is Holbein Watercolors.
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