Meghan Hildebrand is one of Powell River’s most notable and prolific painters, and brings an infectious energy to everything she does. Hildebrand is an abstract expressionist describing her work as “story maps” and her followers always expect surprises. Her paintings are represented by four galleries and belong to private collections internationally.
What have you been doing this summer?
I just finished a series of 14 paintings that will run at the Yukon Arts Centre. I’ve been training for Powell River Punk Rock Choir’s parade season, leading colour classes in Victoria, visiting family and trying to keep up with all the amazing events happening in Powell River. At the end of August I’ll be on the Powell River Studio Tour.
Why is getting out of the studio and having fun important to your art?
Making music with my friends is a part of my art practice. Collaboration with other artists, music-making or otherwise, helps me reset. It can break me out of a rut or spark new ideas. Music, art, dancing, laughing with my friends, it all makes me happy and it comes out in my work.
Would you describe yourself as a prolific artist?
I like to work in series, so when I’m working it’s on a number of canvases, up to 20 at a time. That’s a good way for me to more fully explore themes and keeps me productive.
Are you happy with where you are in your work, or are you investigating other areas?
I’m excited about my latest body of work. I’m not interested in finding a popular formula and repeating it. I want to change and expand, learn new ways to paint and always be excited to work. The last few pieces in my recent series represent a real visual shift and I look forward to time in the studio to explore that direction.
What is art to you?
Art is a human expression that reflects itself differently on everyone, while connecting us through shared experience. Good art will break me out of my pattern of thinking and push me to challenge myself further. I love discovering new artists and being surprised by their perspectives.
For more information, go to meghanhildebrand.com.
