Interview with Genevieve Milliken, Winner of WCAGA Student Membership Award.

1.Who are you and what do you do, and what is your background?

I am a fine arts student graduating from Georgia Perimeter College this spring and starting Georgia State this summer. I was born and grew up in New Orleans, Louisiana and moved to Georgia after Hurricane Katrina. I live in Lawrenceville with my wonderful boyfriend and two dogs, Alfie and Dante.  

2.What's integral to your art and or art career?
The idea of knowing art history and techniques then taking that knowledge to make contemporary art is integral for me. I believe in confidence and intention fuels a strong artistic voice. 

Artwork Genevieve Milliken

3.What themes do you pursue and what medium do you use. 

I seem to pursue more natural themes in graphite and pen and ink. I’m constantly inspired by native fauna and flora of Georgia and the gulf coast.  

4.What makes you angry, what makes you happy?

Littering makes me so mad! But, spending time in my garden growing heirloom vegetables and flowers makes me happy. I also enjoy hiking, kayaking, bird watching, and yoga.  

5.Who and what inspire you in your work and or in your life in general?

Honestly, anyone that stands up for what they believe in inspires me. There is something to be said for everyday bravery. What did Dante say? ‘The sullen lie gurgling beneath the water.’

6.What superpower would you want?

Time travel of course. Coffee with van Gogh anyone? 

Artwork Genevieve Milliken

7.What is your favorite artists and or other person? 

Since I was a little girl, I’ve loved J. W. Waterhouse. I was fascinated with the ethereal nature of his work and, as an adult, his theme of death. I’m fascinated by Lucian Freud and love Durer’s nature works. I also admire my professors for doing what they do.  

8.What advice would you give to other artists.
To be true and pragmatic. As artist, I feel we are constantly taking in stimuli from the world around us; we have to take that energy, sort it out and create something meaningful and clear. Also, the art business is tough, so be organized, graceful, and strong. 

9.Contact details if any?

Please feel free to email me at bienhereaux@comcast.net or visit http://www.flickr.com/photos/genevieve_devereaux/ for my flickr page.