Artist Spotlight: Gill Bustamante

I find the process of creating something utterly absorbing. It is unlike anything else and liberates you in ways that nothing else can.

Jun 22

The purpose of the artist spotlight is to bring awareness to notable artists pushing the boundaries of contemporary art. The art world constantly expresses its thoughts on canvas and other visual mediums based on culture, politics, and social commentary. I am continually looking for people who inspire me in this world with their artistic expression. I hope you enjoy these great artists' artwork and support them. Now let me introduce the artist that we are going to be spotlighting today!

Would you please tell everyone your name?

Gill Bustamante

How would you describe your art?

I paint large landscape oil paintings that stand between abstract and 'realistic' and a little bit messy art nouveau that captures the essence of landscapes, wildlife, and birds.

What motivates you to create art?

I find the process of creating something utterly absorbing. It is unlike anything else and liberates you in ways that nothing else can. The motivation for the landscapes I make is walking through the landscapes themselves and then trying to recreate some of the echoes of that landscape once I'm home. I mostly do this from memory as it cuts out the urge to get overly detailed and makes a 'memory impression' arrive on a canvas.

Who inspires your artistic creativity?

I pretty much do that by myself, but the works of other artists, musicians, filmmakers, actors, writers, etc., always add to whatever I am doing myself. The world survives on its artists - I think artists kept us all going in the Covid lockdowns, so I am pleased to be counted among them.

When did you know that you wanted to become an artist?

I am pretty sure I arrived out of my mother clutching some pencils and a sketch pad. However, it was largely thanks to my Dad that I got the chance to attend art college, so I owe him a lot for encouraging me to pursue my artistic goals.

What advice would you give to someone interested in becoming an artist?

I would say go ahead and do it regardless of who approves or disapproves. Artists have the job of observing things and then communicating what they observed through whatever medium they choose. Anyone can be creative, and everyone should. Some artists will get more attention than others, but that does not mean they are 'better' artists. It may just mean they have better marketing skills. Art is not about money or fame. It is about the joyful act of creating.