Portland/Brooklyn Artist Series, Week 4: Trish Grantham

Smoke Signals, 4' x 2'

When I first met Trish Grantham in 2007, she told me the story of how she got into art.  It's quite remarkable actually.  She moved to Portland when she was 28 years old, and not knowing anyone, she went to a local art shop and bought some paints.  Trish hadn't painted since grade school, but after a few weeks, she had her first art show.  Six months later she was designing shirts for Adidas. 

Autumn Alumni, 3' x 4'

How would you describe your work?

I describe my work as sweet and kind.  When I paint, I like to think I'm making someone's day better. 

Hoot and a Holler, 12" x 6"

What are the greatest challenges of being an artist today?

With the Internet, it is actually the easiest time to be an artist.  I don't think I have any challenges.  Even if times are tough with money, I know I'll be fine.  Art is a gift that I am so thankful for.  

Summer Twilight, 4' x 2'

What accomplishments/works of art are you most proud of?

I am most proud of the large pieces of art I made for gallery shows in New York and Japan.  And I am super proud that I painted by hand a two story SoHo building in New York for Visa in 16 days!

left, clockwise: Georgia Darling the cat; Arctic Ocean, 6' x 4'; supplies in Trish's studio nook

Tell us about the biggest risk you've taken as an artist.

I quit my job five years ago even though I wasn't making enough money on art.  That risk pushed me forward, and it worked!

The Rain Makers, 3' x 4'

What do you love most about Portland?

I feel that I am part of a great moment in time.  The amount of talent in Portland is amazing, and I am friends with so many artists.  I have lived in Portland for 11 years, and it is my home.

photos: Anthony Georgis

To see more of Trish's art, including some of the pieces in this interview, stop by Albina Press in Portland.  The opening is this Friday, March 12th from 6 - 8pm.  She also has an online sale today starting 11am (PST) with artist Amy Ruppel.  Go here to check out the art sale. 

This week's featured Brooklyn artist is Beau Chamberlain who is originally from Portland.  Shown below is his work Urban Growth. Read his interview on Art Hound.