Beth Eckel: Everyone has a story to tell and a gift of curated knowledge to share

Wednesday, April 3, 2024

How did you get started as an artist?

I’ve always been an artist. It’s a lifelong calling, passion, and purpose. In 2014 I moved to Spain to attend the Barcelona Academy of Art where I studied classical realism painting and drawing with a focus in figurative art. This incredible education launched my career as a professional artist.

 

What themes does your work involve?

I like to explore what it means to be human. From the details of our anatomy to the depth of our knowledge and emotion, I hope to tell the story of who we are through my art. My current anatomy series focuses on the extensive beauty, form, and function hiding beneath our skin. Isn’t it fascinating how all of our intricate anatomical systems work together to make us living breathing beings? I love that despite our differences, we are all the same under the surface.

I like to be completely immersed in the creation process, it’s almost a spiritual experience

What is your source of inspiration?

I’m inspired by every person I meet. Everyone has a story to tell and a gift of curated knowledge to share. I love to travel and immerse myself in other cultures. I love to explore, experience life, and translate everything I learn into art.

 

Can you describe your creative process?

I start with a few quick sketches to visualize my idea and play with composition. I gather references, set up models, and take great care in preparing my workspace and materials so I don’t have to think about them while I’m working. I like to be completely immersed in the creation process, it’s almost a spiritual experience. I am more connected with the artwork than I am my own body. In the final stages, I’ve focused on the small details and spend a lot of time stepping back to assess the artwork as a whole before calling it complete.