We’re thrilled to share an exclusive interview with the incredibly talented @cherpruys! From navigating the challenges of being self-taught to drawing inspiration from diverse locations around the globe, Cher’s journey is as captivating as her art. 🌍✨⁠

Cher Pruys, an esteemed artist born in Regina and now based in Devlin, is renowned for her expressive art. With a background in drawing from a young age, she transitioned to painting at 35, mastering acrylic, watercolor, and gouache. Despite being self-taught, Cher has earned 868 awards from 550 international exhibits. Her accolades include the Mary Pratt Crystal Award of Excellence, Biafarin/SCA Award of Excellence, and multiple gold and silver medals.

As a self-taught artist, you’ve achieved remarkable success. What challenges did you face on your self-taught journey, and what advice would you give to aspiring artists who are also self-taught?

Being a self-taught artist has certainly had its challenges! I have been very self-disciplined with drive, determination, time management and problem solving. I spent countless hours sketching from life, and studying anatomy which came easy as I spent several years as a bodybuilder and exercise instructor. I also dove into books on composition, color theory, perspective, value, tone and light and shadows!

Understanding these subjects is essential to creating a successful piece of art. The advantage of being self-taught rather than having had a formal education in art for me I feel has been that I feel free to follow my passion and am not constricted by the many rules that one has imposed on them in a structured program.

Rules are made to be broken, and one needs to leave their comfort zone to grow. I am open to constructive criticism and am always looking to learn, and to strive to get better. For any aspiring self-taught artists, if you follow these guidelines, I know you will find success.

You work with acrylic, watercolor, and gouache. What do you find most appealing about each medium, and how do you decide which one to use for a particular piece?