Sometimes they are complementary colors, sometimes a color and a tint of it, sometimes they are analogous colors. Her socks, that is. Her trademark is wearing a "pair" of socks of two different colors that just so happen to perfectly compliment the rest of what she is wearing! The unique part is, however, that this artist is 11 years old and understands these color terms and can color mix anyone's socks off when she paints!

Two Socks (T.S. for short) is a remarkable person and her enthusiasm for art is contagious! (Now even I can be spotted in town, from time to time, wearing socks of two different colors!) For such a young artist, she has accomplishments in many mediums, including oil, pastel, pencil, ink, clay and mixed media. She enjoys what she does and this joy is communicated clearly in her work. T.S. recently had a one woman show at a local restaurant, and has been featured in several local newspapers.

T.S. has many interests and abilities for an 11 year old. She enjoys playing basketball, reading, writing stories, feeding ducks, playing with animals, digging holes, fishing, school, playing basketball with her brother, and science. She has stated:

“When I grow up, I will be an artist, paleontologist, mom, teacher, and go to Australia A LOT!”

In the two year's that we have been working together, I have seen T.S.'s confidence increase as well as her ability to grow artistically. Where before she may have been tentative about an idea or a way to do things, she now approaches decisions with skill and assurance. I particularly enjoy her willingness to try new things, to experiment, and her ability to retain and apply information. Her art work is beautiful!

Probably what I like the best about T.S. is that she cares deeply about what she does, not only with her art, but about life. She loves nature, animals, people. It's been a real honor for me to share my studio with T.S.!

This past summer, I mounted an exhibit for all of my summer students, T.S. among them. The following is an interview that I had with T.S. about this show.

“SUMMERART 2000: WHAT WE DID THIS SUMMER!”
Interview with artist, "Two Socks"

1. Why did you decide to do art this summer?

Because art is one of my favorite things to do and I wanted to continue working with Mrs. Redlefsen over the summer.

2. Why did you choose to create the piece that you did? For example, painting, drawing or sculpture; choice of medium, etc.

Koalas are my favorite animals in the world and I wanted to draw them. Also, I did a pastel picture because it is a medium that I haven't used yet.

3. Describe your experience.

It took longer than I thought it would but I did not get bored with it. I liked using the pastels.

4. What did you enjoy the most?

Probably working with the koalas and using pastels for the first time. I like the way you can blend them together in such a short amount of time!

5. What did you learn, either about art or about yourself?

How to mix and work with pastel mostly. I didn't really know how to mix before.

6. What kinds of things do you like to draw or paint or sculpt? What is interesting to you?

I love to make animals out of clay, and making pots. I love doing things with animals.

7. Describe any art plans/art projects you have for the future.

I am going to make a self portrait and I am making a holiday card for my family to use that has a drawing similar to what Grandma Moses painted.

8. Why do you like to make art?

I just love the feel of the brush on the canvas, the clay in my hands; I can do whatever I feel like doing!

You can view artwork created by Two Socks by clicking here now!