Meet Judith Dauncey | Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Judith Dauncey and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Judith, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I ultimately felt I had no choice. I have always just wanted to make things, and have an outlet for expression, at some point it was surprising to find that a creative career was possible. I have excelled in other professions, but always get drawn back to the arts, painting especially. There are so many aspects and ways to have a career in the arts, you just have to seek out your niche.

Please tell us more about your art. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
My work has evolved over the years, but it has usually featured some element of assemblage. It is unusual, but I have manage to find a balance between abstract paintings and representational work, with both being gallery represented. I also create home goods, with a focus on durable and functional handcrafted designs. I don’t know many artists or creatives who would define their careers as easy, you are putting all of yourself into something that may be a financial or critical failure. I think the most crucial thing you have to do is, get up. Just keep getting up no matter what. You may have to seek out dividing your time with other things, but do the work, trust your own instincts, and just keep going.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We are so limited these days in what we can do, but I would say, in a perfect world- a day would start with a hike at Dreamy Draw Park, followed by a very long brunch at Fame Cafe, then an afternoon cruising around Phoenix Art Museum or Changing hands Bookstore at The Newton. The go to dinner spot might be China Chili, a long-time favorite downtown (the orange chicken is mind blowing), or maybe the Cornish Pasty Co. on Monroe. Drinks with the best view of downtown Phoenix at FTR at the Cambria Hotel would be a beautiful end to the night.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
No artist can have a career of any length without support and mentorship from others, but for all the support I have received I would have to say the most pivotal would be the artists from Holgas, owned by Wayne Rainey. Even though it is forgotten now by some, the Holgas Art Collective had a pivotal role in helping to establishing the downtown art scene. I was lucky enough to be one of the first tenants in late 2000, and the group that I worked with in those early years helped me grow as an artist and learn so much about the industry. The idea of provided artists not only affordable housing, but the chance to plan their own events and operate their own gallery space, was fantastic but it also provided all of us with a great education and opportunities.

Website: www.judithsapron.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myapronisforthestudio/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judith-dauncey-95612824/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myapronisforthestudio/

Image Credits
Artist Portrait- Kathryn Miller