An interview with Terrill Welch: Artist

Today we are happy to welcome Mayne Island artist and photographer Terrill Welch to Writing Our Way Home. Terrill’s distinctive palette, quick sure painting strokes and photographic images capture forest, sandstone, sea and sky. They remind us that there is only one moment – this one.

Born in the village of Vanderhoof in north central British Columbia, Terrill’s art training came at an early age and continued more in the European style of mentoring and tutoring.

Terrill Welch’s work in water miscible oil paints and her photography printed on canvas showcase the beautiful, mysterious and rugged southwest coast of Canada. A complete artist’s biography is located on Terrill’s popular Creative Potager blog. Terrill Welch’s work is online at Terrill Welch Artist  and at redbubble. 

Welcome, Terrill. What drives your creative work?

As an impressionist painter and photographer I have a desire to connect us to the dirt beneath our feet and the air that we breathe. I want us to remember that we exist because of the sun, the moon, the trees, the rain, and the sea. I want the essence of my work to speak this truth even if you are on the 44th floor looking out on a civilization of steel and glitter. When you look back into the room and see one my photographs or paintings on your wall, I want you to remember this simple and beautiful fact. A fact that will ground your decision-making and feed your resilience until you can join me as I walk on the seashore or under the big fir trees.

What would you say to yourself if you could go back in time and meet yourself at the beginning of your creative career?

I have been waiting so long. What is keeping you?

How do you keep creating when things get difficult?

When things are difficult I shift my creative practice to fit the time, space and energy I have available. For example, I will sketch if I am having trouble painting. I will take macro images if a great seascape is eluding me. Sometimes I bake cookies. The satisfaction of seeing their hot, soft, deliciousness cooling seems to release the satisfaction necessary for other creative work. Something always seems to work and then I am off again with a dozen creative ideas clambering for my attention.

How does your creative work affect the rest of your life?

My creativity is the fluid foundation for all of my living. I think of creativity as fluid because it seems to continually change. I can only catch a glimpse of what I am imaging. This must suffice. The rest is destine to unfold as I work.

What is it like to send your work out into the world?

Our work is always in the world. It is just a matter of allowing someone to find it.

What was the best advice anyone gave to you?

Stay flexible and build on what is working.

What helps you to pay attention to the world?

My feet are what help me pay attention to the world. I walk when I want to pay attention to what is around me and what is happening inside of me.

Thank you Terrill, for your answers, and for sharing your wonderful images with us!