Beth's collage work is so dreamy. I really enjoy the series of people with their backs turned, admiring the landscape. It's just so clever and a little mesmerizing even. The landscapes she chooses are quite magical, and on top of that, she uses a lot of "mysterious" colours--like the blues and purples--that create a really great mood.

Elizabeth (Beth) Ryan Hoeckel
www.bethhoeckel.com
Baltimore, Maryland, USA

Describe your work in 10 words or less.

Ethereal with ghostly/dreamlike qualities, but also sharp and witty.

What do you like to work with (magazines, photographs, vintage)? Be specific!

I collect old books and magazines of all sorts, but usually end up finding the best materials in National Geographics from the late 1950's through early 1970's. 'Yes' brand paste is a key element. And a pair of sharp little scissors and 'X-Acto' knives.

How long have you been creating collages and what made you start?

I would say I've been at it for about 15 years. Collage was definitely the first art form that really spoke to me back in high school (I went to an art magnet school). Oil painting and charcoal drawing only held my interest for so long before I wanted to mix all the media up.

Are you solely an artist, or do you work in another profession?

I have had a number of odd jobs to pay the bills. And I do mean odd. Ranging from NASA behavioral research studies to babysitting at hotels to modeling for art classes. And everything in between. The more unconventional the better, anything to keep my mind moving in creative directions.

Do you have any formal art training?

I got my diploma from Carver Center for Arts magnet high school in Baltimore and my BFA from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago.

Explain your favourite techniques.

I think I get the most work done when I'm alone in my studio at night listening to music and losing track of time. I let my intuition tell me when something is right and when it is finished. I rely mostly on intuition. That and the proper materials.

Describe your favourite piece ever created.

Created by me or by someone else? By me, that changes but right now it's a mixed-media drawing/collage called Rivulet, by someone else--I think that is far too hard to narrow down!

What other artists do you admire?

My strongest admiration is for women artists like Agnes Martin, Eva Hesse, Frida Kahlo, Sally Mann, Marlene Dumas, Louise Bourgeois to name a few.

Thanks Beth!