We're almost to the finish line everybody. Is it just us, or did January last 1000 years? Don't get us wrong, we had a blast this past month but we are more than ready to move on to the next and that could be that we have a very special artist release happening TOMORROW! We are thrilled to welcome Charlotte Fraser of Charleston as our next new Well + Wonder artist! Charlotte is a Lowcountry native, who has been practicing and making art her entire life. After graduating from Clemson University and earning her masters in education from Harvard University, she has primarily dedicated her career to art education while always pursuing her passion for producing art on the side. She recently transitioned into pursuing art full-time in Charleston, SC. Her latest series of work captures these beautiful insects with incredible realism against bold colorful backgrounds. We are incredibly lucky to debut a series of fabulous paintings into the collection tomorrow, February 1st at 12 PM EST. We are anxiously awaiting the arrival of Charlotte's work, so to pass the time we thought it best to quiz this latest artist to join the Well + Wonder team with all of our favorite questions. Continue reading to learn more artist behind these amazing moths, butterflies, and insects! Welcome, Charlotte!
What is currently on your nightstand?
Cup of water, marker, baby monitor
Who is your biggest influence as an artist and why?
My mom. She was also a creative and entrepreneur in many ways and always encouraged me to be creative and explore my artistic talents.
Tell us about your childhood. What is the most memorable moment as a young person?
I had the most amazing childhood and am so grateful to my parents for providing that to me and my siblings. I cannot pick one memory as the most memorable but something that stands out and remains as tradition in our family today is family sharks tooth hunts. It sounds simple but it embodies so many lasting important things in my life - family, adventure, nature, traditions, and curiosity.
If you could only have one supply in your art studio, what would it be and why?
Paint because it can’t be replaced. I can use anything as a canvas and my hands or other tools for application, but I need my paint!
What is your favorite room in your house? Describe it.
My studio! I feel like the luckiest person to have my dream studio in my home. It is bright and airy with some beautiful design choices by the previous owner, inlcuding a navy accent wall and a shiplap display wall. I have a huge desk area and lots of space to organize. I also love the built-in shelves on both sides of my desk that I have outfitted with color coordinated books along with a few of my favorite treasures like sharks teeth and sea glass I have found, small works of original art, and plants.
What is your biggest score online?
This is too hard. I have a bad habit of loving a good deal. I should be banned from online purchases.
What is the benefit of buying art through a collective? What do you recommend for those that are new to buying original art?
A collective is awesome because the art world can be so overwhelming and a collective gives a curated array of artists and artwork that is easier to take in and enjoy.
If you have the entire day to spend in an art museum, which one and why?
Art Institute of Chicago. When I visited, it was the first time as an adult I really fell in love with a museum experience. I was endlessly inspired and excited by everything around me.
What is your favorite hotel and what makes it special?
There are so many great ones it is hard to choose. One that comes to mind is the W Retreat & Spa on Vieques Island in Puerto Rico. I particularly loved so much bright color and energetic design choices.
If you were a lipstick color would you be red, pink, or clear and why?
Red – bold & classic.
I can never get on a plane without….
Headphones
How did you get into the world of art?
Art has always been my thing. I had creative parents who fostered my creativity and amazing art teachers who still inspire me today (FC & MD).
What do you do to relax?
This sounds weird, but writing out a to do list makes me feel like I can relax because it is out of my head and organized on paper. I also love getting a massage and watching bingeable TV.
When do you get the biggest surge of inspiration?
Usually when I am in the middle of one body of work, I get lots of racing thoughts about what else I want to make. This is terrible timing though because I have to finish the work I started with the enthusiasm I started with before I can get to that new idea. I have trained myself to write it all down and not to instantly switch gears.
Prediction for the Color of 2023?
I’m hoping for anything in my favorite color family, green!
What is your idea of a date night? Dinner and a movie or dancing all night?
We are spoiled here in Charleston, so I will definitely be eating and drinking my way through the town on date night!
Tell us about your favorite painting that you have created.
My favorite painting is called “Better Together”. It was the largest piece I had created to date and it really intimidated me. I worked tirelessly on it and was so proud of myself and the outcome at the end. It was a statement piece that taught me to dream big with what I could accomplish.
One piece of advice for buying original art?
If you feel a connection, you can’t go wrong. Don’t overthink it – if it speaks to you, trust yourself.
