By Jonathan Burger, Craven Arts Council & Gallery, Inc.
“At an early age, I discovered drawing was a fun way to express myself and be creative. Through the years, I’ve used many other mediums such as clay, yarn, plaster, acrylics, watercolor, and wood burning. I quickly gravitated towards acrylics and it has become my favorite medium to use. My art often reflects my views on life, my childhood and my beautiful surroundings growing up in eastern Carolina.” ~ Crystal Felton
Have you lived in eastern North Carolina your whole life? What have you enjoyed about living here?
Yes, I was born and raised in Eastern Carolina.
I enjoy the importance of family and church. The atmosphere here is always friendly and welcoming. And of course, I could never forget the beaches.
How did you get started in art? Are there any teachers that have really impacted you?
To let my mother tell it, as soon as I could hold a pencil I was drawing.
Jason Smith, my art professor at Carteret Community College had a profound impact on me. He was so genuine and down to earth when teaching. I learned so much from him.
Is there a theme to your work, or several themes?
I don’t feel as though I have a theme. I let my mind, body and soul be my guide.
Your work in primarily painting, but you’ve experimented with a variety of mediums. Is there any medium you’ve yet to try that you would like to?
I have been blessed to have experimented with many mediums but I would love to try glass blowing and welding.
What is your process for creating a piece? As in what inspires you, and how do you select the imagery of your work?
I am inspired by family past and present. Normally I’ll see an old family picture that captures my eye or sometimes I get random ideas that come to me.
Is there an artist in your field or any other whose work you admire and inspires you?
Instagram has opened my eyes to many talented artists but some of my favorites are Mr. Doodle, Benny Bing, Yungai and so many more.
I could not forget local artist Edward Hood who always leaves me in awe with dedication to the art community, his advice and innovative mindset continues to amaze me.
In one sentence, what is art to you?
A person’s innermost thoughts and imagination.
Is there any specific award, exhibition, or piece that you’re particularly proud of, and why?
None at the moment but I’m working on it.
Do you have any advice for other artists or people who want to become artists?
Always be true to yourself. Never let money be your drive, but let your passion and love for your art be your driver.
I know you’ll be part of the Overdue exhibition in the Main Gallery here at Bank of the Arts for April, but where else can people find your work?
People can find my work on my Instagram at https://instagram.com/fdmjinc
317 Middle Street | New Bern, NC | www.cravenarts.org | 252.638.2577