Artist's corner: Mya Bessette

Medium of choice: Acrylics

Local gallery: Persimmon Gallery or www.myabessette.com

Q: How did you get started?

A: It all began with a trip to my local art store, newborn baby in tow. I began experimenting and finding my style and POV while my daughter napped. I took classes on Photoshop and bought a low-end DSLR camera to photograph my work and was able to launch my Etsy shop in 2009, the same year my daughter was born.

Q: What has inspired you recently?

A: I really want to focus on foreground this year. I love creating those billowing storm clouds and I’m excited to start to give those clouds a bit more detailed context by focusing on the land as well.

Q: What do you hope your work communicates?

A: My tag-line “Optimistic Fine Art” still holds. I hope my work is soothing and uplifting to the viewer. Even my stormier paintings contain areas of brilliant light. I think this is why I’m so drawn to clouds, sometimes they obstruct the light but often, they catch it in ways that aren’t always predictable. Clouds seem playful to me and I hope viewers of my work see the lightness and joy that I’m feeling when I paint.

Q: What are you most proud of?

A: My kids Nevi and Lex (forgive the shameless parental doting). Not only are they phenomenally creative little artists themselves, they are also two of the most kind and gentle humans you could hope to meet.

Q: What is your next big project or focus?

A: I’m diving back into abstracts! I will always paint the sky....there’s no doubt in my mind. But I’m really excited about a large scale abstract collection I’m working on now. I’m hoping to release prints after the New Year!