Wendy Wallace
Artist

Newsletter: June 6 – June 19, 2018

Can you tell us a little bit about what you do?
I’m an artist, working primarily in acrylics. Whether I’m inspired by nature, working on social commentary pieces, or creating murals, it all usually involves bright colors and bold textures.When I’m not creating art, I like to create art opportunities. I currently serve on the board for the Burbank Art Association and organize pop-up exhibits around town for our members.

How did you first become interested in art?
I’ve always been interested in art and creativity in various forms, but I had several other careers behind me before finally becoming an artist later in life. It happened after I became a parent. One day I heard my child say “I can’t do this,” in reference to a homework assignment. Wanting to encourage her, I replied, “You haven’t even tried it yet. Give it a whirl. And remember, nobody starts out perfect at anything.” It occurred to me a few days later that, as someone who has always said “I can’t paint,” I should take my own advice! This led me to take my first painting class through Burbank Parks & Rec. I was hooked immediately and haven’t looked back since.

How do you think art can enrich a community, and what are some ways people can become engaged with art in Burbank?
We so often get so caught up in the everyday rat race of working, raising a family, and trying to schedule a million events that we just plain forget to look around at the beauty and ideas surrounding us. Local art within a community can spark a moment of joy, or make people pause and think. It can bring people together. It can give voice to things people struggle to say. Art is great at capturing ideas and inspiring conversation. Art not only enriches the physical aspects of our community, it also enriches the people encountering it who make up our communities. As for where to experience art in Burbank, there is a lot of great public art and murals around the city, as well as fantastic gallery spaces. But there are also many special events throughout the year specifically dedicated to showcasing the work of local artists. One such event takes place this Saturday, June 9th at the Burbank Town Center Macy’s in the 1st Floor Elevator Lobby. The store is graciously showcasing the artwork of several members of the Burbank Art Association and is hosting a reception from 3:00-5:00 p.m. If you can’t make the opening reception, the artwork will be up in the lobby all month, so definitely stop by.

If you could share with our community one thing about art, what would it be?
The gift of art is that it inspires and can be done by anyone. It can bring out something special – and often unexpected – within all of us, no matter what the medium. If I’ve learned anything, it’s Don’t Be Afraid. Don’t worry that you’re not good enough, or haven’t gone to school for it, or haven’t been doing it since childhood. There are so many ways to express yourself – jump in and give it a try!

To find out more about Wendy’s work, visit www.WendyWallaceArt.com