Artist of the Month: Katura Bell

By Sarah Ramsden

Staff Reporter

November 2021

When did you first start creating art?

As far as I can remember I’ve always had a very creative mind, but starting school helped spark my love for art even more.

What medium do you typically use, and what is your artistic style?

I personally don’t identify with any specific medium, and I’m currently experimenting with mediums that I’m not usually familiar with. My style is based around texture, shape, and how the colors and lines meet the eye. I’ve worked with ink, charcoal, acrylic paint, graphite, watercolor, ceramics and I’m currently experimenting with metal wire. Working with 3-D has broadened my perspectives on what art is, which is why I find mediums that fall under 3-D more intriguing.

Who do you draw inspiration from?

My main inspiration is life around me. Everything and everyone around me inspires me to create differently, which is why I love feedback because it helps me to perceive things and learn from a different viewpoint. Artists that I’ve been studying lately are all black artists: Ken Nwadiogbu, Jordan Casteel, and Kara Walker.

How has art impacted your life?

Art is just one of the many ways that I am able to express myself without the use of words. Art is how I view the world through my very own eyes, which in comparison to others is uniquely different.

What are your future goals?

Some of the goals I have set for myself for the future are to see as much of the world as I can, pursue my art career (The Academy of Art in Chicago), and start my own business.

What are some accomplishments that you are really proud of?

The recognition in general for my talent whether it was school awards or appreciation in general. My art was also published in the Southern Lakes Anthology book in 8th grade which was a very special moment for me.

What are you working on right now?

Currently I am working on my SI for AP Art Studio with Mrs. Carpenter. I’m choosing to work with wire to create a hanging decorative frame for each of my pieces. My theme for my SI is childhood memories that have been embedded in the subconscious mind and are now faint pieces of a story we once lived.

What advice do you have for newer artists?

Art is a spectrum of learned and or given skills. Nothing is set in stone and there’s no rules with art at all. Just jump in and follow what interests you or confuses you into wanting a deeper understanding. There’s no right or wrong, no pretty or ugly—anything and everything is art when given a perspective.