With creativity abounding in the community around us, The Concord Insider, in collaboration with Concord Arts Market, will begin highlighting local artists on a regular basis. The first artist spotlight focuses on Elizabeth MacBride, who lives in Contoocook.

Q: Tell us about your art: 

A: There are three things that I have been passionate about my whole life. Being an artist, swimming and working with children!! This culminated in a wonderful life. Being an artist and art teacher for my career has been such a bonus. Since retiring from teaching, I’ve now dedicated my time to being an artist and teaching swimming. Still creating the perfect balance in my life.

Q: What does art mean to you? 

A: Being creative is the most impressive part of being an artist to me. Trying new things and pushing limits makes such creating so much more fun.

Q: How did you first get into your craft? 

A: I still have artwork that I created when I was young. As a child, I struggled with school, so the art room became a favorite place in elementary school.

Q: Where do you find inspiration? 

A: I usually find things to celebrate from within my life to use as inspiration. For example, I love to be submerged in water. This makes me love the idea of being a mermaid or a fish. So I often make plates shaped like fish, jars with mermaids and fish on them and vessels with swirling waves and water covering the surface.

Q: What does your creative process look like? 

A; I have several ongoing sketchbooks where I’m constantly putting down ideas. Although I thoroughly explore the ideas before starting a project, the final product often morphs and changes within the time I’m actually creating the clay part of the piece.

Q: What advice do you have for aspiring artists? 

A: Don’t worry about being a good artist! Enjoy the process and keep practicing. Have fun!!

Q: Where can we learn more about your art?

A: Follow @ElmArtStudios on Instagram. And come on over for a visit!! I love it when my artwork finds a new home.