Below we hear from artist-illustrator Renee Hunt about her work and influences. You can see more of Renee's art on her website or Instagram.

What is your background?

My background is primarily in oil painting. I went to school for visual art, with an emphasis in oil painting and minor in Art Therapy. I have always been interested in psychology and emotions and often incorporate that into my artwork.

Why do you do what you do?

I create art because I love the process. For me the process of creating starts as an idea inspired by a story or inspired by other artwork. It takes discipline to work at a project as the idea takes shape. The drawing and painting process is a special kind of therapy to me. It keeps me grounded. Also, I love the friendships and connections I make through showing my artwork.

What work do you most enjoy doing?

I really enjoy creating a story with a painting/drawing. I love the process of directing a story with small and subtle details in a portrait or illustration. I would spend hours as a kid flipping through pages of story books just looking at the pictures—my imagination filling in the information that the words couldn’t provide. I did this with Mary Hoffman’s Amazing Grace more times than I can count.

What themes do you pursue?

I pursue emotional themes and representation.

What does your work aim to say?

My work aims to tell a story. It offers the viewer empty spaces for their interpretations to fill. 

How does your work comment on current social or political issues?

My work does not comment on our current social and political issues in an obvious way. My artwork displays Black people as the protagonist of whatever story I tell, this will be political to some. Mostly my work offers viewers a rest for their eyes.

Who are your biggest influences?

My artistic influences include Kadir Nelson, Lucian Freud, John Singer Sargent. Other influences include James Baldwin and Toni Morrison.

How have you developed your career?

I have developed my career by exposing my artwork. I tend to be a very private person, but sharing my work comes naturally to me. I do this on social media.

How do you seek out opportunities?

Most of the opportunities that have come my way came by me sharing my artwork in some way. I have often showcased my paintings in NJ and NY by responding and applying to artist calls.

How do you navigate the art/publishing world?

To navigate the art/publishing world I create and showcase my artwork. Small business and self-publishing authors connect with me for collaborations.  

Which current art world trends are you following?

I’ve noticed that the art world is becoming more inclusive and representational. These are very positive trends. In addition to creating more relatable and representational artwork, I am trying to simplify my style. 

Why art?

I have always been a visual person. Expressing myself through creating has become second nature to me in expressing myself and working. 

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?

The best piece of advice I’ve been given is there is not right or wrong way to create art, and there is room for every artist.

How important are libraries to you as an artist?

Libraries are so important to me. It is unfortunate because now libraries are closed. Before quarantine I used to go to the library during the week (sometimes weekends!) and work on various projects. Libraries hold a special place in my heart because they were where I would go to create digital paintings before I was able to land a job. Looking through the books there would provide me with inspiration. Also, I loved libraries for the people-watching opportunities.

What have you been working on recently?

Lately, I have been working different projects including a children’s book on why masks are so important. It has been fun to illustrate the different ways masks are essential in the worldwide pandemic we’ve been facing. I have also been trying to explore different illustration styles. 

Have the recent events had an impact on your art practice?

Yes, the recent worldwide events have impacted my artmaking tremendously. I’ve been creating more artwork and refining my style.