The Disability Tribune welcomes San Francisco-based artist Simone Guimaraes.
Belo Cipriani: At what age did you start to paint?
Simone Guimaraes: I first began to show an interest in art when I was 7 years old. By the age of 8 years old, I was already taking private painting classes.
Belo: Who are the painters that inspired you?
Simone: The main artist that inspires me is Frida Kahlo. She was definitely ahead of her time and I can relate to her because it’s not easy to put yourself in your paintings. By just being able to look at her artwork, you can feel all the emotions she was feeling in that moment, as though you were there with her.
Belo: How has your painting evolved in the last couple years?
Simone: My artwork evolved significantly as I got older. My first creations were flat, and a product of what others would tell me what I should paint. Now my artwork uses recycled elements that add texture and different dimensions, such as fabrics, stamps, paper, and recycled wood.
Belo: Do you focus on any themes?
Simone: The theme that I most closely compare to is that of folk art, with the usage of women, celebrations of life, and Afro-Brazilian scenery.
Belo: What is your creative process like? Do you listen to music when you paint?
Simone: As for my creative process, I always listen to music, with the exception of classical music.
Belo: Do you have a studio or is there a place in your home you like to paint in?
Simone: My studio is located within my home, with glass doors facing the garden.
Belo: What are you working on now?
Simone: Currently I am working on a painting of Victorian houses on a recycled window from a demolished house instead of a canvas.
Belo: How may people buy your work?
Simone: I sell my artwork at the Embarcadero, and people from all over the world end up purchasing my artwork. I sell my smaller pieces that are lowered in price and easier to transport to those I meet downtown. My larger pieces remain in my studio and are displayed at my art shows as well as my website www.simoneguimaraes.com.
Who is Belo Cipriani?
Belo Cipriani is the Writer-in-Residence at Holy Names University, a spokesperson for Guide Dogs for the Blind, and the author of Blind: A Memoir. You are invited to connect with him on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and YouTube.