My artwork is motivated by a fascination of people and animals: friends, family, foes; as well as domestic and wild creatures — an interest in capturing personality. I make portraits (1) sometimes with a focus on the face, which I isolate against minimal backgrounds, (2) other times by placing the subjects in environments which, themselves, reveal character, and (3) when I am most interested in concept, often depict the subject as a stand-alone.

I make it a habit to study the history of portraiture for ideas and inspiration, because they inform my development. To me, the most influential portrait artists are David Hockney, Lucian Freud, Pablo Picasso, Alice Neel, Kiki Smith, Louise Bourgeois and Alex Katz, because their work demonstrates the myriad ways to depict a subject; i.e., with primary emphasis on content, color, form and/or style.

Of all art forms, I am most interested in painting and printmaking. In painting, I prefer using oils to lend a traditional element to my contemporary vision. I enjoy integrating printmaking concepts into my paintings. For example, in Cary & Simon, 2008, I made a series of stencil patterns for the foreground grass using eight different shades of green spray paint.

Although most of my artistic challenges are positive, one is not: a constant fear of running out of ideas. However, when this happens, I am usually able to regain confidence by leaving my studio and going out into the world. For me, my studio is an extension of my self: Every single thing I do is part of a gigantic art project – my life. Waking in the morning, showering, driving to and from work…I am constantly making mental notes of potential subject matter, techniques, colors, and so on. A story in the news can inspire a subject, a conversation with a friend a mode of execution, a song lyric, a mood...

These endless aspects of life and living compel my creative nature and enliven me to make art.

—Sara Vanderbeek, 2008