Soul Spotlight - Eye on Erin DeCoste

I am a firm believer in the power of community. One of my goals as an artist is to surround myself with strong, supportive creatives. Women and men who inspire without strings attached. Artists who open themselves up and pour their truth out via different mediums and creative adventures.

I’d like to introduce a new series entitled “Soul Spotlight”. A periodic blog segment with the goal of building community and sharing the work of fellow creatives. My hope is that by sharing these amazing artists who have knocked my socks off we will continue to grow and nourish our community as well as stand beside one another in a show of support.

Today’s Soul Spotlight focus is on Erin DeCoste.

I met Erin a few years ago via Instagram and we easily connected. She is quick to offer support and a kind word and lifts me up when I need a boost. Her talent is off the charts. She has an extraordinary ability to capture vivid emotion in her portraits. I encourage you to follow Erin on social media to see her jaw dropping portraits.

I sent Erin a few questions and below she gives us a little peek into her world!

Tell Us About Yourself

Where does one even begin? Haha

I am a coffee drinking, sci-fi loving portrait artist. I live in the big state of Texas with my husband and five kids. While I say I'm self-taught, I have learned from some of the most amazing artists through online workshops. I started my art journey later in life, delving into every medium and falling in love with them all. While portrait work is my where my heart lies, art journaling is a fun way for me to play, practice and explore.

What does Art mean to you?

For me, art is expression. It's a form of communicating our feelings when words fail us. It's a way of sharing with others how we observe our world and all the things in it.

Who/What inspires you?

I totally want to just say everything does, haha, but let's see if I can get more specific. *wink.

As a portrait artist, faces are truly inspiring! No two are alike-- even my identical twins have differences! Faces are like maps, and I just want to explore every pathway on them. Nature also inspires me. The textures, the colors, the feelings I get when I'm outside fill me with energy and excitement. I also love seeing artwork from the old masters. Monet, Bosch, Whistler just to name a few, all have pieces that speak to me. Music is also a huge influence and inspiration. Certain songs resonate within me get me all fired up and ready to create.

Top 3 must have Art Supplies.

As an art supply hoarder, I thought I would struggle with this question, but truly just give me a pencil, charcoal and paper, and I will play happily for hours!