Meet Gloria Ross: Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Gloria Ross and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Gloria, what are you inspired by?
In one word, nature. From the plant and animal world to the geometry of lines, shapes and angles, I find inspiration for art all around me. My thoughts about color, form, and movement all have the common thread of nature. When I paint, I am drawn to images or scenes that are inviting to me and through my art I try to bring my audience there. The art I appreciate most always transports me to a different place and time. A good artist can evoke a memory or a feeling as much as a familiar aroma can. My own senses come alive at the touch of a luxurious fabric or the sight of animals at play. I love the scent of fresh paint and just hewn wood and the sound of rushing water or waves crashing. This is where inspiration lives for me. Nature has never let me down and I look forward to all the experiences ahead of me.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am very early in my artistic career. I began formal oil painting classes just over 2 years ago and owe much to my instructor, Luz Maria Perez, and my fellow students. Art is very personal but can be shared on so many levels. One of the biggest, and for me the most valuable, lessons I have learned in pursing art is how much we miss by not taking the time to actually see someone or something. Nature in particular is so much more than green grass and blue skies while the face of a stranger can reveal much if you simply observe. It takes practice, but is so rewarding! I share this love of exploration with my fellow artists. As my brand or story evolves, I hope I can demonstrate growth in technique and style.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would show her my favorite spots in Southern California…our beautiful mountain lakes, mountain villages, and citrus groves I played in as a child. I would absolutely visit Oak Glen especially if my best friend visited in the fall. We would check out the beautiful campus of Redlands University and the Victorian era homes of old Redlands. The Mission Inn in Riverside would be a must as would the Palm Springs Aerial Tram and the Living Desert, both within an hour of my home. We would have breakfast at Clarkie’s in Calimesa, or Arthur’s in Mentone. We could have lunch at Russo’s or Guy’s in Banning and maybe enjoy dinner and drinks at the Tartan in Redlands. We would also attend a Plein Air event with the Inland Empire Chapter of the California Art Club. Music at the Redlands Bowl would be a wonderful nightcap. The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My family and friends are my greatest fans. They support my artistic efforts, no matter where that leads me, and bear with me during the trying times. They are never surprised when I attempt something new and different; they give me the energy to learn new things. I am a member of the California Art Club and find their support and opportunities unequaled. The more I learn the more I want to learn. This is the definition of mentorship.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gloria.ross.35