Meet Monica “Mono” Campbell | Oil Painter and Framer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Monica “Mono” Campbell and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Monica “Mono”, the decisions we make often shape our story in profound ways. What was one of the most difficult decisions you’ve had to make?
The most difficult decision I ever had to make was deciding that I could not be in my marriage of 29 years any longer. That decision made a painful ripple effect throughout my family, friends and business. It took about 5 years of thinking about it and then in spring of 2020 I filed for divorce. You don’t have much control after you’re in motion and no going back. I thought I would still be running my side of the business and I thought I could fight for my house and stay in my art studio. It did not work that way. My husband chef and father of our 2 grown sons bought me out and I was on my way. We worked for 20 years building/owning a restaurant and bar in Montana. Many years of struggling and hard work in the hospitality business. During all this I painted at night and days off. Now is the time at 51 to pursue my painting career. I supported and poured my heart into my husband’s career and now I have to take care of my passion.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art can be described as dark-pop art, or dreamy surreal, saturated colors of things in my life that I love. I have been painting with oils for 33 years and I would say I am a pre-emerging female visual artist at 51. I have something different to offer the art world and I want to be a part of it. The thing I am most excited about is starting over in a new city where art and artists are celebrated. A state that I can build my studio, meet art lovers, sell original art, and make my home. I learned that taking a risk and starting over can lead to great things.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I moved here in December 2021 and am lucky enough to have explored the area. I love Superstitious Mountains the wild Mustangs in the desert, Bisbee, Flagstaff, and the sunsets are amazing. I would take my guests to Grimaldis for pizza and take a hike up South Mountain. Or explore the many art walks, and gallery shows happening.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
A shout out to my Aunt Brenda (illustrator) who always encouraged me and Uncle Bob Pepper (illustrator, RIP) in New York for all their inspiring artwork I got to see growing up. My great grand mother Jo Snider (RIP) of Whidbey Is. WA who taught me how to use oil paint when I was about 11. To the art lovers who bought my work in the past.

Website: www.monothepainter.com

Instagram: @monoartstuff