Elizabeth Grimaldi Interview | Respect the Artist
I’m a Monmouth County, NJ based fine artist working in several pastel mediums to represent the beauty of the natural world, with an emphasis on placed I’ve loved, visited and photographed.
How did you get into creating?
From an early age my mother and father encouraged me. My mother painted as a hobby. Post retirement, my husband, who is a studio and performing musician, and encouraged me to return to my creative roots.
Where are you from?
Highland Park NJ
How did growing up in your neighborhood/city affect you?
New Jersey is an eclectic and high energy place tans the vibe makes you feel like you can accomplish anything.
What did you do to advance your skills/knowledge?
The past year and a half I’ve dedicated myself to daily practice in my studio and to the study of other artists who I admire.
What does your current setup look like?
I work at a drafting table indoors with all my materials around time.
Who inspires you?
My answer has two parts. First, on a personal level, my husband, Scott Grimaldi, who at the height of his career performed at Radio City Music Hall as the first chair sax for Aretha Franklin. He is a highly disciplined guy who understands many aspects of what an artist must do to hone their skills, get their work out there, and to stay engaged and relevant over decades. He is my muse and my guru.
2. On a professional level, The work of JJ Mumford, a contemporary oil pastel artist whose work captivated me. Another layer of my answer to this question is the inspiration of my daughter Emily who introduced me to JJs work and to a new medium that truly resonates for me— wax pastel.
What is your goal when you create?
To inspire the viewer and to preserve in my own spirit, the moment that I stood in the scene. Almost all of my work emerges from a profound and spiritual reaction to the beauty of Gods created world.
Why do you create?
To deepen my respect for all artists everywhere by walking the walk, and to reflect the beauty of the created world to others.
How has choosing your creative path affected your life?
It’s given me new purpose and cognitive challenge.
Did you have to overcome any obstacles along the way?
Yes, when I started I had trouble with single focusing to a task. (I can expand on this further in a very meaningful way on the podcast! )
What is your dream as an artist and what steps are you taking to reach your dream?
To continue to improve my skills, to stay relevant and to encourage other artists.
What would you tell someone else with a dream?
Dreams are essential for breaking through the past, and for preventing yourself from getting stuck. Dreams come true when you lay out a plan and stick to it. Dreams don’t usually come true through a twist of fate; you have to make them happen with a plan. Read the book “Atomic Habits”
Contact Email: Grimaldimusic@me.co
Website: http://www.Elizabethgrimaldi.org
Photography credit: https://www.cranburyartscouncil.org/
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