She's an American artist who paints in the style of the old masters, with her own contemporary vision. Korin Faught, perhaps unintentionally, taps into themes like feminism and religion, whilst always recording with a beautifully detailed and nuanced technique. Her work is a reincarnation of the old masters in a contemporary context.
What are your initial memories of painting? When was the first time you realised you want to pursue fine arts as a career?
I remember visiting the Louvre in Paris at a very young age. That first introduction to classical art had a profound impact on me. Later at art school, I fell in love with oil painting and now I can’t imagine a career in a different field.
Could you tell us a little bit about your childhood and what it was like for you growing up? You were born in Arizona and raised in Colorado, how did this affect your childhood experiences and influence your journey into fine arts?
My childhood in Colorado was very “outdoorsy.” We were always hiking and skiing and mountain biking. We also traveled a lot because my mother was working for an airline. Growing up, I felt like a typical American kid but looking back, I was very lucky to have such an early exposure to the world and other cultures.
Your work has a reflection of classical and mid-century style, what was the process of finding your personal style and expression? Was it trial-and-error based, or did you recognise from the very beginning how you wanted your pieces to look like?
Yes, trial and error mostly! I feel like my influences are all over the place but I try to make each body of work feel unique to itself. Pushing myself out of a rut is difficult and I get comfortable using the same box of tricks. I need inspiration to grow and take risks, so sometimes I take workshops or trips to museums and galleries or watch films, which helps. Paint application is very important to me and I’ve found over the years that a "wet into wet” approach is really satisfying to me, so I mostly use that technique.
How does your husband Adam Jone’s musical journey influence your artwork? Are you inspired by music?
Absolutely. I listen to music when I work. Adam inspires me everyday and not only because of his music. Beyond being a fantastic musician, he’s an amazing sculptor, director, and visual artist. For anyone that knows Adam, he’s a wonderful friend and ally. He gives the best pep talks!
I read that you are inspired by Aaron Smith, David Luce and Michael Hussar. Who are the other contemporary artists you admire?
Those names you mention were college instructors of mine, each wonderful artists, who were instrumental in my development. I’m lucky to have amazing artist friends--Natalia Fabia, Sean Cheetham, Jeremy Lipking, Phil Hale, and Justin Mortimer--who inspire and motivate me to be a better painter. I continue to be inspired by old masters, turn of the century portrait painters.
Do you believe that art has some sort of responsibility to be the advocate for social change? Is it possible that art can become too socially-charged?
Personally, I mostly keep politics out of my paintings but I think art is a great way to express and advocate for social change. Nothing should be taboo when art is concerned.
Can you tell us about femininity and the embodiment of emotion?
The female experience is complex. There is so much to unpack here but I really enjoy the intimacy of painting the female form.
I was very intrigued by Snow White and Shroud. Would you mind telling us more about how these ideas came about and how much significance does the folklore and religion hold in your art process?
Both Shroud and Snow White were painted for themed group shows, the themes being Crucifixion and Pop-iconic. Within the context of a themed show, I rely on a mix of religion, pop culture, folklore, and mythology for my visual vocabulary.
According to you what’s been your major career highlight so far?
Every solo show is a highlight for me. I feel so blessed to have my work up and be seen in person at a gallery, especially with the pandemic happening.
What are your plans for the coming few months? Any projects, pieces or exhibitions you’re currently working on?
I’m working on commissions and generally playing catch up with family and home life.
