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Answering Email

Every once in a while I get an email from a stranger about my work. Sometimes another artist from another country, sometimes an artworld person.... sometimes a highschool student:

"Hello Mr. Wexler. My name is Maya, and I'm a high school art student. I was looking up paper collage artists online, and I found your interesting art. I was hoping you could answer a few questions that I have for you about your art and career as an artist. If you don't have time to answer them, I understand. Thanks".


1.What inspires you most when you come up with an idea?
2.What was your path to finding that you loved paper collages with acrylic paint?
3.How do you overcome frustrations when creating art?
4.Can you describe any special techniques you use?
5.What do you most enjoy about being an artist?
6.What does creating art mean to you?
7.What is the most important advice you could give me as a young artist?

Thank you for your time!


Hi Maya,
I'll answer in brief. You can also find any additional information about my work at www.aaronwexler.com
These are the answers in the order of your questions:

1. The possibilities of expanding that idea through visual language and the medium I work with.
2. I was previously making paintings (until about 2000) using paint as flat shapes. I realized I liked cutting the shapes out of painted paper better. It is more efficient and gives me more freedom.
3. I don't overcome frustrations... I just manage them.
4. My most special techniques are all a result of fine tuning my craft.
5. Theoretically I have full control over what I want to make. More importantly though, I always have and always will have the need to be creative. Being an artist fulfills that need for now.
6. It means creatively expressing the way in which I see the world.
7. Be honest with yourself in everything you do. It's the most direct route to making good art and making your way through a difficult career.