Judith Kuegler
Durham, NC
Though born in Germany to German parents, Judith Kuegler grew up among tribal communities in Nepal and Papua New Guinea. Her interest in creating art began at a very early age and is profoundly influenced by her multicultural upbringing. After attending Art College in Germany she moved to the US to continue her studies in art and psychology. Judith works as an artist and art teacher with special interest in global women’s issues, multiculturalism and anthropology. She lives with her two sons in North Carolina.
How and when did you start creating art?
I began creating art at a very young age. Modern art supplies were non-existent in the jungle so when I ran out of paper and pencil and I would use burnt coals from the fire to draw on wood. There has never been a time in my life that I have not created art.
What media and genres do you work in?
Encaustic art is my medium of choice. While I have always enjoyed oils, one of its strengths, to me, is also a weakness. Oils allow reflection, correction, on going refinement of the concept. Wax, on the other hand, is like a living being.
I generally paint abstract and figurative paintings inspired by nature.
Who or what are your influences?
I remember as a young art student visiting the Vatican Museum in Rome and being completely mesmerized by Italian Renaissance artists. As my art has evolved with time, there are many different things that influence my work, ranging from engaging with nature to studying ancient cultures.
What was your inspiration for Morning Glory?
Taking an early morning walk through the Pisgah National Forest.
Describe your creative process?
It is not uncommon for me to have several ideas or concepts for different paintings at the same time. They are often not fully formed, still in the peripheral vision of my mind, and not until they come into focus can I proceed with the painting.
Creating a concept board helps me focus. It is a way for me to get the ideas out of my head, and look at them critically. My concept board often includes a color scheme, shapes and forms that inspire me, as well as drawings and photographs. It is not uncommon for an encaustic painting to go its own direction once I have begun but the concept board gives me a place to start.
What are you working on currently?
I am working on a series of encaustic paintings on cedar panel
What are your near/long term goals as an artist?
My goals are to keep creating and evolving as an artist. I want to share my worldview with others and hopefully give them a new perspective on what life could be.
Where can people view/purchase your work (gallery, website, etc)?
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