Creative Spotlight With Sam Sidney June 20 2022
We love working with inspiring creators in the Charleston community. Today we are spotlighting the colorful felt artist Sam Sidney! Check out her Q&A below!
My name is Sam Sidney. I am a native New Yorker, but have called Charleston home for the past 15 years!
Tell us how you got started in art?
I truly feel like I have consisted myself an artist for as long as I remember! There has never been anything else I have ever wanted to be or do. When I went to college I knew I would major in Art, it was a total no-brainer!
How would you describe your art?
Most recently I have been working with felt! I would describe it as HAPPY! It’s fun, colorful, simple and clean. My subject’s are relatable to different people, generations and styles, from sneakers, to food, to celebrities, there’s something for everyone!
What inspires you?
I am inspired by pop culture. Food, fashion, celebrity icons, music, and advertising. There is so much media all around us, it’s impossible not to be inspired.
Which artists inspire you?
Growing up in New York in the 1980s, I love Keith Haring, Basquiat, Andy Warhol. There is something so nostalgic about their work. I also love the painting of Alex Katz. They are simple, crisp shapes, graphic.
What do you love about working in the Charleston Art community?
I love supporting all of the amazing artists in our community, we are so fortunate to be a hub for some of the best artists and galleries in the world.
How does Charleston inspire you?
Charleston is constantly evolving. There is something very old world about Charleston, but also super modern and current.
What is your current favorite piece that you have done?
A portrait of Joan Rivers and her beloved Yorkie are in my top favorite pieces. This piece was part of a collection I did for a gallery show at Eerdmans New York last fall. The show was based on iconic New Yorkers.
Any new pieces that you are working on that stand out?
I recently completed a commission of the entire cast of the television show “This is Us.” One of the cast members ordered this piece for the series finale as a gift. I was honored, humbled and just a little star struck!
What is the most difficult part about being an artist?
Hmmmm?! The most difficult part is the balance between work and home life. My little studio space is in the center of our house, which is great but can prove difficult when I have to separate work and home life.
What is the most difficult part about being an artist?
Hmmmm?! The most difficult part is the balance between work and home life. My little studio space is in the center of our house, which is great but can prove difficult when I have to separate work and home life.
What is the best part about being an artist?
The best part of being an artist is making people Happy! One of the things I hear most often is that my work makes them happy!
What type of framing is your favorite?
As much as I love color, white frame with a white mat is my go to! It lets the work speak for itself and doesn’t complete with my art!
Why do you love working with A Simple Tree Framers
A Simple Tree Framers is the best! They are prompt, reliable, and do a beautiful job with my work! I love the way they raise the pieces above the mat!
Interested in finding out more? Follow Sam on Instagram to stay up to date on new pieces and announcements!
