Getting Personal with Talents | Artist - Diane Millsap

How did you become an artist?

I had always painted from time to time, but I started to focus my art on New Orleans after my husband and I first visited there over 20 years ago. I felt an immediate connection to the old narrow streets and the centuries old buildings! Having raised our family, I had time to paint regularly and found that I could sell my paintings from my website. It really was something I had not planned. It was like New Orleans adopted me!

What inspires your art? Where and how do you find inspiration?

Everything about New Orleans had become a true passion for me: the architecture, the music, the people! Even though I live in Illinois, I visit there 4 times a year. There is always something new to inspire me. The city has so many layers of unique history and culture. And the friends that we have made there are always introducing us to some new neighborhood or some new musician.

What does your art mean to you?

I paint almost every day. It's really not just work for me, it has become part of of who I am. Whether it is a commission for for an individual or a painting for a corporation, I always give it my best.

What is the most valuable piece of art to you?

I treasure the art I have which is done by other New Orleans artists. My own pieces are kind of like my children. I have no favorites.

How do you overcome your creative blocks?

Creative blocks are something that I run up against, and I just paint through them. I look for a color or a line that I like, and I try to run with it.

Would you describe the experience or feelings you have when creating your art? 

When I paint, I get the feeling that I am expressing an experience that is unique to me, but at the same time, an experience that is common to everyone.