One Loopy Knitter: What Inspires You: Interview with Cool Ranch Studio.

1. Please tell us a little bit about what you do.

"I am a painter of primarily miniature original abstract woodland spaces and scenes. These days I have just begun to expand into painting on recycled or reclaimed wood, and am using a burning tool to add detail and interest to the paintings. I use a similar technique with a metal scratching tool to add detail to my acrylic paintings on canvas."

Precarious No. 2

Storm Cloud Coming

2. You mention in your etsy bio that you have a degree in philosophy. That leads me to wonder if your cute little painted scenes are just that- cute little painted scenes, or if you are constructing a different dimension to them behind the scenes.

"I am sure that among many things, my background in philosophy has an influence on my work. I never begin a painting with a specific notion of what I am about to paint. The first decision I make when starting something new is always about color. Beyond that, my ideas are very loose and flowing - one decision on the canvas flows into the next. I do get into patterns when I enjoy something, and that has certainly happened with the fox character and the hedgehogs. I think 'a different dimension' is an interesting way to look at it - I certainly hope that each piece inspires other people's imaginations. For me, what you don't see in each scene is just as much a part of each painting as what you do see."

Wildflowers No. 8

3. Keeping our work fresh means constantly seeking new sources of inspiration. Where do you look to find it and/ or what kinds of sources most inspire you?

"Etsy is a great source of inspiration for me. It is so wonderful to see so many different styles and subject matter under one 'roof.' In a way, it feels like being back in art school. I miss that time. My 5 year old son is also a huge influence on me. His interest in things like trees, volcanoes, and animals constantly spark my imagination. I keep a small sketchbook handy for jotting ideas down, and am doing a lot more drawing these days with him - which inevitably leads to ideas for new paintings."