What kind of artist are you?
I like to think of myself as an artist by nature. With two artists for parents, I have been doing this since before I can remember. It has always been a part of my life. I have gone through many incarnations of art, but I think I have finally found my niche with my current form.
Where are you from?
I grew up in Elm Grove, LA on a family farm. I spent a lot of time entertaining myself and I feel that sparked the creative bug.
How long have you lived in Shreveport?
I moved to Shreveport when I started college in 2003. I have lived in the Broadmoor area for 10 years now.
What’s your favorite place/thing to do in Shreveport-Bossier?
I absolutely love the Shreveport Farmer’s Market. We try to go every week. It is a wonderful community. My other great love is the Maker’s Fair. The outdoor festival-like atmosphere at both things makes me feel happy. It really feels like a community.
What’s your favorite color?
As an artist, this changes almost daily, but if you go by my wardrobe, apparently it’s army green.
What are your favorite colors to use in your art? Why?
I love earthy tones complemented with a bright accent color. It makes a piece feel warm, but then pulls your attention with the pop of color.
What was the first piece of art you ever completed?
Probably a finger-painted masterpiece around the age of two? But seriously, my first real piece of artwork was in high school. It was a black and white painting of an eye that won an award at a gallery for Bossier Arts Council. I was really proud of myself.
If you had unlimited funds, what would you do?
I would probably buy a building downtown and renovate it to be a studio/gallery. I love those old buildings. Then I would hold amazing events with no ticket price (since I had unlimited funds).
If you could be any animal what would you be?
A direwolf, duh. Been reading a bit too much Game of Thrones.
What does being an artist mean to you?
It means creating and being true to myself. It means opening peoples eyes and enriching their lives. I love when people see art and it pulls their heart-strings. That’s the kind of artist I want to be.
How, if at all, has the Shreveport-Bossier artistic scene changed while you’ve been working within it?
The little-guys seem to be getting themselves out there more. The Maker’s Fair helped with this. Not everyone has the ability or the funds to be an artist full-time. It’s nice to see more artwork from the “working-class.” I hope this trend continues.
When did you know you wanted to be an artist?
I’ve always been an artist. It wasn’t a decision that I ever made. Every job that I have ever pursued was in some way artistic.
Did you have any idols/role models that helped facilitate this dream?
My parents have supported me every step of the way. My mom, Linda Snyder, has always encouraged me to do what makes me happy and has financially made it a possibility on numerous occasions. Without her, I would be nothing. My dad, Bill Gaston, gave me the technical ability to create the things I wanted, even if he did engrain a massive level of perfectionism in me.
What words of advice would you give to young – or old – people pursuing an artistic life..?
It’s not always going to be easy and there will be a critic on every corner. Do it for yourself and don’t listen to the haters. People will try to tell you what “art” has to be and the truth is, there are no rules. Art is art.
What do you hope people feel from looking at your work? Gain? Experience?
Happiness. I hope that looking at my artwork makes people feel something that they want to feel. I want them to take it home and add it to their lives.
What do you like on your hamburger? Or are you vegan?
I like things simple. I’m a mayo, mustard, and cheese only kinda person. Don’t get fancy on me.
