How Beth Chien Brings an Urban Edginess to Her Art
Updated Jan 2023: Maker’s Tech U is no longer open.
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Maker’s Tech U Member Spotlight SERIES
Artist chat with Beth Chien, a Mixed Media Artist living in Chicago with her husband and two rescue dogs. Beth loves to express herself through writing, art journaling, painting on canvases, and most recently spray painting. Since she was little, she has always been known to color outside the lines.
In this interview we chat about Beth's love for Chicago and how rich the city is in all the inspiration it provides her, how her work has changed over the years, her love of sharing and encouraging others and how being a member of Maker's Tech U has helped her grow her online business and so much more!
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How would you describe your art?
Abstract and full of texture. My mixed media art is full of texture and layers. I love mixing two totally different things together for an interesting story. Like floral with something edgy on it. Or vintage/distressed with some modern marks. That is how I approach many other creative parts of my life, like decorating and fashion.
What is it about creating that lights you up?
Getting lost in the paint and journaling. When I am painting, everything else seems to melt away and I feel so much lighter when I come out of the studio.
How do you live a creative life?
My wheels are always turning. My husband says it's like a swarm of bees up there; I am always coming up with ideas. Ha! Not only do I create, but I enjoy interior design, journaling, and thinking of creative solutions at work.
How would you describe your creative process?
My process can be anywhere from walking into the studio, grabbing the closest thing, and just starting playing to full-on research mode. This year, I have tapped back into my love for urban surroundings. So, I went to some neighborhoods in Chicago known for their street art and walked around a lot, getting inspired and taking photos. I came back and brainstormed on ways that I could incorporate this into my art and possible future projects to share with others. I bought some spray paint and have had fun exploring that. My husband and I even went to an Urban Art Paint Night and created a couple of canvases with spray paint. I've got ideas in the cooker that I am still hashing out on the side, while I continue to art journal and make videos.
What is your biggest obstacle when it comes to creating?
Being consistent and following through. (hello, shiny new idea!)
Do you ever experience creative blocks and what do you do to overcome them?
Yes, I do experience creative blocks. The biggest way for me to overcome them or resist them is to keep up with my journaling and prayer/meditation.
How has your creative journey changed from when you first started creating?
I have grown a lot as an artist. I have learned so much and continue to learn so much. That is why I want to turn around and share with others... just as some of my fave artists have inspired me. Also, I can't believe I have done all the tech things that I have in the last year.
Has technology been a struggle for you in creating an online presence or selling your art online? In what way?
Some deeper technology was like a big scary monster I didn't want to take the time to learn. I've always been the type to be able to figure out apps and social media and things like that. But, I honestly never thought I would have a website, blog, newsletter, etc without paying someone to build it for me.
What has benefited you the most from being a member of Maker’s Tech U?
To narrow that down is a tough one. The other day, I saw something that needed to be fixed on my website, and I went straight to it and fixed it. It made me stop and say "wow, I never thought I would have known that right off the top of my head". Being able to learn to do all of this myself through Maker’s Tech U is empowering!
How has your online presence changed since you joined Maker’s Tech U and applied what you have learned?
My online presence has definitely changed and grown. I am excited to have people signing up for my newsletters every week.
What advice would you give to other creatives struggling to move forward for fear of technology?
Oh my gosh! Just do it! Seriously, I kept putting it off, making it this big scary monster. Maker’s Tech U seriously holds your hand and walks you step-by-step. I feel sooooo accomplished and proud of myself for what I have built this year. Once you start going and gain momentum, you don't want to stop until you have it done (be it your website, blog, newsletter, updating all your bios, etc.)
What changes would you like to make in your creative journey over the next six months?
In the next six months, my top three goals are to add an online shop to my website, create an online workshop, and build inventory of art pieces to sell.
What fun activity comes second in your life to creating?
Travel! I love to explore and hike with my dogs. My husband and I are planning a trip to Europe next year (fingers crossed things are OPEN!)
What is your superpower...something you feel makes you really shine and you get excited about?
My energy...when I get excited about something, I can't help to get others around me excited. When I talk about art or my dogs, my whole face changes and my eyes light up. That is something I like to see in others, too. Getting them excited about something. That's why I want to help others express themselves. There is something so powerful when you can help someone tap into their creativity.
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Beth Chien
Beth Chien is a mixed media artist living in Chicago with her husband and two rescue dogs. She loves traveling, dancing, and swimming. Since she was little, she has always been known to ‘color outside the lines.
She loves to express herself through writing, art journaling, painting on canvases, and most recently spray painting.
Beth has always been fascinated by urban surroundings, such as layered paint and posters that have peeled away over the years. To her, they leave an artistic echo of what was once there and that is where she finds much of her inspiration.