The Importance of Artistic Exploration: A Journey of Discovery with Anne-Marie Boisvert

The art of experimentation is a never-ending quest for artists who want to push the boundaries of their creativity. During a Facebook Live where I had the honor of interviewing Anne-Marie Boisvert , an artist recognized for her innovative approach, we explored the multiple facets of experimentation in art. Anne-Marie, whose artistic journey is marked by a constant exploration of new horizons, shares her valuable insights on how to revitalize our art through experimentation.

Renewing Yourself Through Experimentation

Anne-Marie Boisvert emphasizes the crucial importance of experimentation in artistic development, considering it as a pillar not only to break the boundaries of the comfort zone but also as an enriching philosophy of life. She sees in experimentation a constant opportunity to renew oneself, to embrace the diversity of mediums such as oil, acrylic, printmaking, and pastel, and to transform each mistake into a valuable learning lesson. By challenging oneself, such as adopting new mediums, Anne-Marie stimulates her creativity and encourages an approach to art where curiosity and the desire to learn guide each creative gesture, thus allowing one to fully live the present moment through one's artistic expression.

The Use of Experimental Notebooks

A key aspect of her approach is the use of experimentation notebooks. These notebooks allow her to test different techniques, mediums, and colors without the pressure of creating a finished work. These notebooks serve as a creative laboratory where error is allowed and even encouraged. Anne-Marie shares the example of using old books for collage and the importance of documenting her experiments for future reference.

The Golden Rule of Experimentation: “Fat over Lean”

In our inspiring conversation with Anne-Marie Boisvert, she shed light on the “fat over lean” rule, essential for mixed media enthusiasts, explaining it in a particularly accessible way. This practice consists of applying fat mediums such as oil paint or oil pastel over leaner layers such as watercolor, acrylic or dry pastel. Anne-Marie highlighted a crucial point: the importance of applying a fixative, usually in an aerosol form, to non-permanent mediums such as dry pastel or watercolor before adding additional layers. This avoids compromising the upper layers and ensures the preservation of the work. She shared this technique not only for its value in the final quality of the work but also as a foundation for successful artistic experimentation, illustrating with her own anecdotes how this understanding has profoundly influenced her exploration of different mediums.

Experimenting with Prints

Printmaking is the new artistic field that excites Anne-Marie in her experimental approach. She shares her working process with different printmaking techniques, highlighting how this practice allows her to explore new creative avenues. Experimenting with soy-based inks and different surfaces offers endless possibilities for artistic expression.

Ikigai Philosophy in Art

Anne-Marie also introduces the concept of Ikigai, a Japanese philosophy that resonates deeply with her artistic approach. Ikigai, which means “reason for being,” perfectly embodies the spirit of experimentation in art: finding one’s way by exploring various passions, skills, and contributions to the world. This philosophy inspires her to pursue her creative quest with passion and determination.

Watch Facebook Live

For those who were unable to attend our Facebook Live or would like to relive this inspiring discussion, we invite you to watch the recording available here . This is a perfect opportunity to dive into Anne-Marie's thoughts and perhaps find the spark for your next artistic project.

The interview with Anne-Marie Boisvert reveals the essence of experimentation in art as a constant journey of learning, discovery, and self-expression. She reminds us that art is a never-ending exploration, where every mistake is a step toward a deeper understanding of our artistic practice. By adopting an experimental approach, we can open doors to new creative possibilities and enrich our artistic journey.