We have many talented artists and creatives living and working in our Farmington/Farmington Hills community and this series introduces you to some of them.
Today we feature artist Virginia Masson.
When did you first get started in the arts?
I have drawn, sketched, doodled my whole life. I dove into painting 20 years ago and never looked back.
Did you receive formal training in art?
I am mostly self-taught. I have taken some college level art courses and was certified as an Intentional Creativity instructor and coach in 2018. The Intentional Creativity training was world changing for me and really freed me from my previous, hyper-realistic art.
Listen to your inner wisdom, follow that voice. No one else can tell you what your art is.
Who has been a mentor to you along the way?
Shiloh Sophia McCloud.
Can you describe something you’ve created that is particularly meaningful to you?
My first full color painting of the Muse – Compassion is so memorable because it came from deep within me, rather than being a reflection of something outside myself.
Has your art appeared in any city programs or events, such as the Public Art Program at City Hall or Art on the Grand?
I have shown at Art Prize, Musea gallery in Sonoma, CA., participated in an online gallery event at the United Nations among other online gallery shows and have my images featured in magazines. I will have a booth at Art on the Grand this year.
Can you share a favorite quote about art or life?
“We are not here to impress, but to express.” – the Peace Muse (that’s me)
What advice or suggestions do you have for younger artists?
Listen to your inner wisdom, follow that voice. No one else can tell you what your art is.
What do you think is missing from the arts community in Farmington/Hills?
I think we’ve got a great start! Would love to see the Winery become studio and gallery space filled with artists and their art!
Why is celebrating and promoting art healthy for a local community?
Art opens minds and hearts. It helps us to consider other views, other lives, other opportunities. Self-expression helps us to work through challenges, dream clearer futures and celebrate this incredible life!
You can learn more about Virginia Masson and her work at http://www.peacemuseart.com.
Virginia’s work is fantastic – I have taken 3 of her classes and each one is a magnificent, surprising and healing journey into my inner world. I have no art background and never thought of myself as creative, but I love what I have created because it’s ME. I highly recommend her classes! And she has amazing art to share with the world – I am starting my collection of Peace Muse art and I love it!