We had the good fortune of connecting with Amber Kaiser and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Amber, what inspires you?
In a broad sense of the word “inspiration”, I find it in people and places. To be more specific, I find inspiration from an internal outlook and perspective in the way that people interact with each other and their environment. Discovering new locations and points of interest is what keeps me feeling fresh and inspired with my work.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My professional career like so many others, did not grow overnight. It has been built over the years and half the battle is just by showing up. It is one thing to think about and dream about it, another entirely to make the first step in showing up for yourself and where you want to be. Somedays it feels easy and natural. Other days, being an artist feels very difficult. As a creator there are times that I struggle with doubt and that feeling of being an imposture. I have found when I consistently show up for myself, I find the love and joy in creating. I’ve learned that surrounding yourself with like-minded people who are working on their goals and supporting one another with encouragement is sometimes all it takes to overcome the mental blocks I put on myself. Setting myself up for success and being intentional about the process is another invaluable tool. This looks different depending on the day but consists of either going to a museum or exhibition, going for a walk outside, or even something as simple as cleaning and prepping the space the night before. My artwork is a journey through different mediums. I work through ideas and concepts through clay painting and mostly printmaking. I like to use the medium that best translates the concept or idea that I am trying to convey. My artwork is unique as the illustrations are interpreted through my mind and life lenses. It is always evolving, which keeps my attention as it develops from one idea to another. I enjoy telling stories through my work to give the viewer something to question- a past, present and future of what is occurring. I hope that those who come across my work are willing to go on this adventure with me to explore what other stories need to be told.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Some of my favorite spots in the city:
The Menil Collection
Center for Contemporary Crafts
Burning Bones Press
We have a great collection of Museums- you can’t go wrong!
Space Montrose and the shops along Westheimer Rd
Sacred Heart is another fun shop to visit
Saint Arnolds Brewery has some great murals and beer located in the chapel.
Johnny’s Goldbrick, Anvil and Lei Low for craft cocktails
East End Backyard is a dog friendly bar I like to take the pups to
Memorial Park has great hiking trails.
Bellaire offers amazing food options near Chinatown.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have so many shoutouts to people that have helped my artistic endeavors in many ways. I need to start with acknowledging my parents for always encouraging me to be who I want to be, pursue what I want to and to have an excellent work ethic no matter what it is. My husband who inspires me to always push the limit and to not settle- to dream big and go for it. Burning Bones Press- a collaborative print shop in Houston Texas that has created a positive workspace with amazing creators who are always willing to help, and problem solve. I am truly blessed and fortunate to be a part of this place! I also want to give a big shoutout for the friends and family that take the time to mention my business, whether it is on social media, word of mouth, or to be featured here on ShoutoutHTX. Thank you!
Website: www.amberkaiser.com
Instagram: @amberkaiserstudios
Linkedin: Kaiser Amber