Artist Mini Interview: Andrew Dines

What does “being an artist” mean to you today?

The most essential aspect to being an artist today is a stubborn commitment to your inner voice. That can lead to some surprising and challenging places. Seemingly more than ever, one must disregard the expectations of the market and the elevation of social or political trends to create something of real value.

What influences outside of art shape your practice?

It seems like everything influences my work, usually in unexpected ways. Personal observations, literature, philosophy, and current events all manifest in my work indirectly. More and more, I’m embracing the impact of cinema on my painting. It’s revealing to see how artists interpret the current age in such a different visual format. Leaving aside the additional possibilities of time and sound, the best directors create a mood that translates even in a film still.

What role does experimentation play in your process?

Experimentation is huge for me. Most people misunderstand painting as a process of translating a fully-formed image (in your head or in a photo) onto canvas. The most interesting paintings involve a process of discovery where each stage informs what comes next. The most rewarding and challenging aspect of my practice is this constant cycle of surprise and adjustment. It certainly can be frustrating, but I never know quite what it’s going to look like when all is said and done.

Where can people follow your work or learn more about you?

I currently have work hanging in La Marmotte (www.petalsandpetrichor.com). My website is andrewdines.com and Instragram is @andrewdines. The Little Telluride Gallery is always looking for artists. The Instagram handle is @littletelluridegallery.