Grace Popp

Grace Popp is an artist from Virginia Beach, Virginia. Popp believes that living in an environment like Virginia has had a big effect on her artwork. She also believes that the community where she lives in Virginia, embrace art and different cultures. Popp knew for almost her whole life that she would end up doing something in the arts field. Her art career all started with an internship with World Art Group right after she graduated from college. Popp uses a range of mediums to create her art including graphite, watercolors, oil paintings and more. She currently lives in Charlottesville, Virginia were she continues to create new art.

What did you do before devoting your life to art?

I always knew art would be in my life. I don't want to go ahead and say, yeah, I knew I wanted to be an artist from birth - but I did know that I would always be creating art, whether I was working in another profession or not. The fact that I found a career as an artist is amazing.

What job did you have before becoming an artist?

I worked different part time jobs with small commissions now and again during my college years. I also had a really great internship at the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art where I worked with children.

How did you become an artist?

I had just graduated from college when I got an internship at World Art Group. I started an apprenticeship soon thereafter and became one of the in-house artists.

What art pieces do you have on your walls?

I love being surrounded by artwork that friends have produced. I am always on the lookout. I also usually have color palettes that work well together hanging around.

What is your biggest inspiration for art?

Nature. Sometimes I can't even believe what nature is capable of creating.

Does the place you live have an effect on your art?

I think living in Richmond, Virginia had the biggest effect on my art. I was there for four years during college and was exposed to so many different people. It was really inspiring to live in a city that embraces it art and diverse cultures. I will always love Richmond. I've lived in Charlottesville almost a year now - and the Blue Ridge Mountains certainly inspire me.

What do you feel is your greatest strength in your art?

My use of line. Color freaks me out a little but I've improved there and it's also worth mentioning.

What do you enjoy most about being an artist?

The freedom to create. The ability to see something and replicate it in your own way.

What is your favorite piece you've created so far?

I'm pretty critical of my work, so it's usually one I've created recently. I'm constantly learning, so usually paintings that I've done two months ago make me face palm. I have really enjoyed painting animals in watercolor and have been pleased with their outcome.

What mediums do you use for your art?

My mediums range from graphite to watercolor to oil painting, but recently watercolor has been my go-to. My style can be pretty controlled, but watercolor really forces me to allow things to happen. I also do a lot of graphic work. I will paint something traditionally and piece it together in a final piece using Photoshop, or add textures to something that would otherwise look very flat.

What is your favorite way to work?

With my headphones in and music playing. When I need a little jolt I listen to Michael Jackson's Greatest Hits; if I'm feeling like I need some brain stimulation I'll listen to the podcast Stuff You Should Know.

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