Claire Lily Coxon has only recently joined the Park Gallery family, so it's a good idea to get to know her a little better. Based near Swansea, in the Gower peninsula to be more precise, Claire enjoys painting outdoors and that's reflected in her paintings, you can nearly feel the fresh coastal air. You can view her collection here.
1 How would you define “success” in an artistic career?
We artists are sensitive people, so seeing how people emotionally connect with my work is one measure of success for me - its a great feeling when I see the reactions of people, how my art visibly touches them in their hearts (sometimes even raising a hand to that part of the chest!). I especially like it when people who know the places well tell me I have captured the feeling of a place.
I'm also very grateful that this is my job and I see that as a success in itself. It's occasionally a tenuous existence, but nearly two decades of full-time freelance work as an artist are something I'm proud of and thankful for. The support of buyers and galleries is a connection I take personally and with gratitude, but I also love to just share my work and showing it is a buzz for me when I get such personal feedback from people even when they cannot afford a piece.
Sharing wall space in galleries with some of my art heroes is something I'm also very proud of.
2 What’s one food you absolutely refuse to eat and what one food that you couldn’t live without?
Shellfish aren't for me. And crisps are one of my five a day.
3 How has your background or upbringing shaped your creative identity?
I was lucky to have tolerant parents! My family's professional focus is around computers and numbers, and they have never worried that I don't have those abilities. They encouraged and supported me from my very earliest memories, and have always let me take the risks we need for a career in art. Mind you, they still expected me to go out to work, so, I had to make this work! I grew up in Whiteway Colony, which had an unusual range of personalities (including professional artists), who were supportive and didn't bat an eyelid when I threw myself into this life. It's been a challenge but I am very lucky to be painting en plein air in such inspiring locations.
4 If you could instantly teleport anywhere, where would you go right now and why?
I'd go to see my sister in Antigua. She can work from anywhere with broadband, so that's where she's chosen and I haven't seen her in ages. Mind you, I'd probably teleport back pretty quickly because I'd wilt in the heat.
5 Have you ever had a really strange or funny job?
While I was developing my postgraduate portfolio and getting it out there, I did whatever odd jobs came up. I was employed as a painter and decorator just before my art career took off. The strangest job before that was working in a recycling centre on the conveyor belt, with mask, gloves, overalls etc. to protect me from the assorted grim waste that came through to be separated. I also did work experience in a sculpture casting foundry called Pangolin.
6 What’s a misconception people often have about being an artist?
That we find it easy.