I've been interviewing local artists every other week for our local newspaper, and I'm enjoying this new job. It's energizing to talk art with other artists, and to try to delve into what drives them in their creative passions.

No matter what their artistic discipline is, artists have many things in common. Most speak of recognizing their love of art, or music, or creativity in general, at an early age. Most pursued their dreams throughout their lifetimes. Many credit their parents as supporting their artistic pursuits and enabling them to study and learn.

Seems like artists also have an inner assurance that what they are doing is authentic and meaningful. Acclaim and fiscal success are more rewards than validation. There's little room for self-doubt.

The creative process is to many more important than the product. I spoke to a musician who cares more for songwriting than for performing - he prizes the process over the product.

I like too that speaking to these artists has given me opportunity to help them - I've been able to share what I have learned about art marketing, or direct an artist to a local arts group that could help them, and they have done the same for me. It's a good network to have.

If you are a Peace Region artist and would like to be featured in the Northeast News Artists Page, contact me! angelafehr at angelafehr dot com