Please join us in welcoming Beth Bathe as our newest Dynasty Brand Specialist!
With a rich background in graphic design and as an art director, Beth brings a unique perspective to the world of fine art. A nationally recognized plein air painter, she is known for her evocative, nostalgic style and use of unconventional tools, capturing the fleeting beauty of the everyday.
Keep reading to learn more about Beth’s artistic roots, passion for storytelling, and the great advice she has for emerging artists!
Congrats on becoming our newest Dynasty Brand Specialist! Can you tell us about your journey as an artist and how your background has influenced your creative approach to what you make?
Art has always been a part of my life, growing up in a household with my father as a commercial artist, painter, and creative spirit. I earned a BFA in Communication Art and Design and spent over 35 years working as a graphic designer and art director. In 2007, my partner Bill surprised me with an easel and oil paints for Christmas, but it sat unused in the basement for over a year until I finally decided to take a painting class. After painting a pear in my first session, I was hooked.
In 2012, we relocated to another state, and I joined an outdoor (plein air) painting group to meet new friends. That's when I discovered plein air art competitions across the country, where artists are selected to paint in specific locations for about a week, culminating in awards and sales. I quickly became passionate about this format and now participate in up to ten juried and invitational festivals each year.
My background with tight deadlines and fast-paced projects has been invaluable in the world of plein air competitions, where artists often have to complete two or three paintings a day under strict time constraints. We make quick decisions and adapt to various locations and weather challenges, making it an exhilarating experience.
What aspects of your art do you find most fulfilling?
I find several aspects of my art particularly fulfilling. First, the act of creation itself is incredibly rewarding; there's something transformative about bringing an idea to life on canvas. I also cherish the emotional connection that my work can create with viewers. When someone resonates with a piece I've created, it reinforces the idea that art can evoke feelings and tell stories.
My subject matter includes finding beauty in buildings that are often beyond their prime. They might be abandoned, or derelict, or soon to be part of the vanishing landscape. Painting primarily on location en plein air allows me to catch my subject at a specific time, ideally when the light and shadows play on the surface, creating drama and emotion.
Additionally, I love the sense of community that comes from being part of the art world, whether through collaborations, workshops, or competitions. Sharing experiences and learning from fellow artists adds depth to my practice. Finally, the personal growth and continuous learning that come with each project keep me engaged and motivated. Every painting teaches me something new, and that journey of exploration is deeply fulfilling.
Are there any specific projects or pieces of artwork that you’re particularly proud of? What made them stand out to you?
I have just recently been given Signature status with The American Society of Marine Artists. I feel that boats, marine, and shore life have been a central subject in many of the competitions that I participate in. Both my paintings of the schooners “Mary Day” and “Flying Colors” are good representations of my work. As a plein air painter, I work hard and getting the drawing of the boats as accurate as possible, it’s important. Other pieces have emotional or personal meaning to me. It might be the subject matter, the experience of painting the piece, where it was painted- it can be all of these reasons.
I have one painting called “Red Shoes” which is from a photoshoot of one of my favorite life models. It was painted during COVID, when we were all painting alone in our studios. It is of a ballerina, sitting alone with a solemn look on her face. It made me think of all the artists, the dancers, the musicians who were all “dark” and not working during the COVID lockdown. This is a special painting that I have kept in my own collection. This is just one of many paintings that have special meaning to me.
We are so honored you’re a fan of Dynasty Brush! Please share which Dynasty Brush series is your favorite and why.
I use the Dynasty Silver Brush Short handle Brights. I love the sharp chisel and crispness that the brush keeps. I paint a lot of architecture, and the brights keep a sharp, crisp line. Painting with water-mixable oil paints, synthetic brushes are important so they keep their shape. Additionally, the low price point of these brushes makes them perfect for my workshops and for beginners and advanced students. Just love them!
Along with being a professional artist, you teach workshops- please share with us what you teach and what students can expect in one of your workshops.
I teach a reductive painting technique using water-mixable oil paint and a limited tonal palette. Wondering what Water Mixable Oil paints are all about? Known for blurring the line between watercolor and oil paintings, my painting style evokes feelings of nostalgia, like an old sepia-toned photograph. I use unconventional tools, including squeegees and cotton swabs, along with my brushes, focusing on composition, values, edges, and drawing rather than color.
Workshops could be for beginners through advanced. I will not be teaching the fundamentals of oil painting (color mixing theory, etc.); rather, my technique with just one or two colors. I usually provide all materials (use of paint, a prepared painting panel, and brushes) as part of my workshop material fee.
Besides painting, are there other mediums you work with?
I also use pastels and charcoal drawing materials.
What advice would you give to new and emerging artists?
1. Embrace Your Unique Voice: Find what inspires you and let your personal experiences shape your art. Authenticity resonates more than trying to fit into trends.
2. Experiment and Take Risks: Don’t be afraid to try new techniques, materials, or styles. Every experiment, successful or not, is a learning opportunity.
3. Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key to improvement. Set aside time each week to create, even if it’s just a sketch or a small piece.
4. Seek Feedback: Share your work with others and be open to constructive criticism. It can provide valuable insights and help you grow.
5. Network with Other Artists: Join local art groups, attend workshops, or participate in online communities. Building connections can offer support, inspiration, and opportunities.
6. Stay Resilient: Rejection and criticism are part of the journey. Keep pushing forward, and don’t let setbacks discourage you.
7. Document Your Progress: Keep a journal or a portfolio of your work. It helps track your growth and can be a source of motivation when you look back at how far you’ve come.
8. Have Fun: Remember to enjoy the process! Art is about expression and creativity, so allow yourself to play and explore without pressure.
Where can fellow artists and fans find you online?
My website, bethbathe.com, on Facebook and Instagram! Plus, you can read her bio on Dynasty Brush's New Artists page.
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