Unlock the Secret to Becoming an Influential Leader in 90 Days Without Sacrificing Your Personal Life
Ashley Huegi
The best part of being an art consultant is when you can commission original art. One of my recent projects for a healthcare facility in Dallas allowed us to work with multiple regional artists, including some we had never worked with before.
When a chance arose to meet with the artists in Austin to pick up their artwork on the way to the installation in Dallas, my coworker and I took it. So often, when working on projects, most of the communication is through phone calls and emails, and while that can help build a successful relationship on its own, there is something to be said for meeting in person.
To be able to talk to the artists in their studio space and see where they create the artwork gives you a better sense of who they are. Luckily, on this trip, we could schedule time with three artists.
Andrea Pramuk, who produces beautiful abstract artwork using alcohol ink and paint, showed us new items she has been working on – including wall covering artwork.
Paul Stankiewicz welcomed us into his space and, equally as important, introduced us to his cat while he talked to us about how he came to live in Austin and showed us a few of his paintings representing famous landmarks in Texas.
After meeting with Paul and Andrea, we took a surprisingly adventurous trek to Roi James’ studio, filled with hairpin turns and one-lane roads leading up to his 2-story house and studio, which Andrea jokingly calls his “fortress.” Roi is a new artist who works in multiple mediums, including unique dimensional works on woods that he refers to as his Construct Series. He showed us his workshop and the second-story studio with an entire glass wall overlooking the hill country.
My journey through Austin to meet local artists while working on an art project for a women’s center in a hospital was an incredible experience. It emphasized the role of art as a source of healing, comfort, and inspiration, especially in places where it’s needed most. Getting to meet the artists responsible for these creations was a tremendous privilege I won’t forget!
