21 Under 31: Young Artists to Watch in 2017: Christina Szakonyi

Christina Szakonyi
Florida

Christina Szakonyi, Journey, oil, 10 x 18.

Christina Szakonyi, Journey, oil, 10 x 18.

Art Education: I am currently studying with both Jonathan Hardesty of Classical Art Online and Charles Miano of the Southern Atelier. I also hold an associate degree in graphic design. And I am incredibly grateful to all the artists who have so generously shared their knowledge through books and videos.

Style: Representational.

Creative Spark: Working from life is very energizing and spontaneous. There’s a sense of urgency to capture a fleeting moment in time.

Second-Choice Career: Architect or interior designer.

Other Passions: Chocolate, reading, horseback riding, and spending time with people I love.

One Thing People Don’t Know About You: I played clarinet regularly for three years.

Best Advice Received: From Charles Miano: “Explain
your ideas through skill instead of words.” From Jonathan Hardesty: “Paint who you are.”

Biggest Fear: I try not to dwell on fears, choosing instead to cherish the present.

Quirkiest Trait: I am addicted to libraries.

Mantra or Motto: Go for it even when you don’t feel ready, because you will never feel ready.

Favorite Studio Music:
I often work in silence to eliminate distractions, but if I do listen to something, it can range from classical to rock to an audiobook.

Favorite Work by Another Artist: It’s difficult to choose a favorite, but I keep coming back to works by Jeff Legg, Casey Baugh, and Robert Liberace.

Future Goals: To continue to improve my craft, explore more figurative work, and create art full time. Someday I would like to share what I have learned with others.

Price Range: $500 to $8,000.

Representation: www.christinaszakonyi.com.

This story was featured in the September 2017 issue of Southwest Art magazine. Get the Southwest Art  September 2017 print issue or digital download now–then subscribe to Southwest Art and never miss another story.

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