Next in our all-star lineup of artists is Cheri Brackett, a beautiful artist whose first ever showing was just at American Folk (not too shabby for a debut if I do say so myself!).  I walked into the gallery and knew immediately that I wanted to invite her to participate in the auction.  Luckily, she’s a kind soul, and instantly said yes!

With no further ado (that is really how you spell it, I looked it up), here’s a mini-interview with Cheri along with some of her work:

You just had your first gallery show…are you new to painting?

I’ve been painting for about 6 years now.  I’ve always drawn with pen, charcoal, pastels; and I do okay.  But when I picked up a brush and began messing with paint, something connected that hadn’t connected before.  When I paint, and I’m in “the zone.” as they say, my heart starts beating faster, my breathing changes and I’m awake to and in relationship with something bigger than myself.  In some ways, it’s scary; but most often I feel lusciously alive.

                    Nude One

What most inspires you to create?

The female — mothers, grandmothers, the girl-child — of all cultures, colors, and communities.  I once tried to paint a man, and he ended up looking like Sigmund Freud. Not a very pretty picture!

             Young Ballerina

Tell me about your “day job.”

 I’ve been practicing psychotherapy and spiritual direction for over 15 years.  Really all that means is that I’ve found a really beautiful way to be with people in various aspects of their lives.  It’s an honor to be invited in and to occupy such a place of trust.

          Profile in Green

Are you from Asheville?  If not, how did you find yourself here?

 I’m not from Asheville.  My husband and I discovered Asheville on a map while sitting on the banks of the Rio Grande.  It seemed to have had all the ingredients we were looking for, even though we’d never been here before.  So we decided Asheville was the place for us, and then after spending eight winters in rural Maine and two years in La Jolla, CA, we finally got here in just the right timing and for very different reasons. It’s funny how that happens.  It’s really become a very sweet home and community for my whole family.

          Reflection in Film