Hail Storm Inspiration: 12x12 Artist Bill Struby

Guest Interviewer: Cayla Lewis

Bill Struby, OKC

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Bill Struby, Holds a Challenge (Golfball sized), Mixed, 12x12”

Q: What is the inspiration for your 12x12 piece?

Bill Struby: This piece is inspired by the constant storms of the last few years—particularly the hail storms.

Q: How do you go about collecting the materials for your collages and mixed media pieces?

Struby: I have several boxes of images and pieces of color that I have collected over many years. I especially like art magazines for color, and old magazines for what I refer to as "characters." In the last few years, I've found a number of websites that collect old advertising, and that has become a major source.

Q: Is there a particular kind of imagery or subject matter you are drawn to more than others?

Struby: Because I am usually constructing what I see as a story, I love images that can imply comedy, drama, or mystery.  That's probably why advertising is useful—old advertisements almost always have a storyline.  I enjoy taking images from one context and putting them into a new story.

I try to keep explanations of my work simple, maybe even sparse, because I don't want to direct the viewer too much.  Even though some of my titles can guide the viewer or provide a starting point, I like the idea of people finding their meaning, or additional meanings.

View and bid on this artwork as part of the 12x12 Art Fundraiser tonight along with food, fun and 149 other artists. Preview the artwork for the one-night event and purchase tickets here: www.12x12okc.org.