I always find it so inspiring to talk with Corey Moortgat—she’s kind and introspective and very thoughtful about her art. Because March’s Mixed-Media Monthly Challenge is inspired by her work and her book, The Art of Personal Imagery, we thought you’d all enjoy a bit of Q&A with this talented artist. Last Friday we learned a bit about Corey’s artistic philosophy and creative process. This week, we’ll learn more about where she sees personal imagery fitting into the mixed-media community—and we’ll have a little fun, too.

Jessica: What signs have you seen of a movement in the mixed-media community toward work that uses personal imagery more and more?

Corey: I think that the paper arts revolution that began several years ago is going through some changes. As a community, we have all evolved and learned from each other, and are realizing that there’s more to this style of artwork than sepia tones and fairy wings and mimicking the same styles over and over. Many artists are looking for ways to make their artwork unique, and looking for new imagery. It’s only natural that we would start turning to more personal imagery, since it does not look like all the other art that we see, and is a way to express ourselves.

Jessica: Your artwork seems to have crossover appeal to scrapbookers... And it’s no secret that some mixed-media/collage artists run the other way as soon as they hear that word. Why do you think there is such a discrepancy between the two? Can’t we all just get along?

Corey: I think that the barrier between the two communities is slowly breaking down. There are so many crossover artists, like myself, that are making the line less and less distinct. Those of us who began in the mixed-media community see the amazing products and paper available to scrapbookers (not to mention a lot of fabulous art), and traditional scrapbookers are becoming less strict about layouts, etc., turning to mixed-media techniques. We all just need to be open to the possibility that the other “side” has some fantastic ideas and inspiration from which we can all benefit!

Jessica: Who are some of your favorite artists?

Corey: Currently, I’m very inspired by Betsy Walton and Mati Rose McDonough.

Jessica: When you go into your studio to work, what’s the first thing you do?

Corey: I usually have an idea in mind, or at least a starting image I want to use, so I begin with pulling that out. Then I just go from there, with one thing leading to the next! I don’t use many materials when I work, and I always clean my space when I’m finished, so I don’t need a lot of prep time. This is handy, since usually my only art time is during my kids’ naps, and my time is limited!

Jessica: If you were an acrylic paint, what color would you be?

Corey: I have a craft paint that’s called Caribbean Blue, which is a bright aqua. It seems that this color, straight from the jar, always seems to be the perfect accent in my artwork, so I think that would be my vote!

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Visit Corey’s blog for more crafty goodness from this inspiring artist. Lucky for all of us, there are still more than two full weeks left to try this month’s challenge! What better day to start than today?

Happy Friday,

Jessica