Sheila Neufeld is an immensely talented abstract painter, a world-traveller, and brings a sense of adventure to everything she touches.
How long have you been an artist, and what motivated you to pursue art?
I have been an artist my entire life. I would draw by myself for hours when I was a child. However, I have been a professional artist since 2005. I had a display wall at a local design show and my paintings did very well as they almost sold out. So I decided after that to make the leap into art as a full-time career.
What inspires you to create art?
I have always found creating art to be a therapeutic practice for me. I love creating as well as putting colors and textures together to create something beautiful!
What about your art process is unique?
Over the last few years, I have been incorporating crystals into my paintings. In my “Universe and Dreamscapes” series, I used Swarovski crystals that allow the artwork to twinkle in different light sources. In my latest “Creation” series, I use natural crystals and gemstones as well as their sands to create depth and dimension in my art.
Travel is an important part of your life. How do you incorporate that into your art?
My past and recent traveling experiences are an important component of my creative process. I have been immersed in a variety of different and unique landscapes. I try to bring little pieces of these memories into my art. I love combining what brings me joy in one area of my life into my creativity.
Who has been your greatest artistic influence and why?
I personally have always loved Georgia O’Keefe. She created beautiful art and was a complete individualist who lived life and created art her own way. She paved the way for many contemporary female artists. She has been and continues to be a huge inspiration in my art career.
