Y1 E6: Amanda Koss - Abstract Expressionism Today

 

Amanda Koss

All images are courtesy of the artist

Amanda Koss is an artist and curator based in Dearborn, MI, known for her captivating abstract expressionism and innovative use of materials. With a background in graphic design, Amanda brings a harmonious blend of creativity and precision to her multi-award-winning artwork.

In her Dearborn studio, Amanda delves into the depths of abstract expressionism, creating dynamic pieces that feature layers, textures, and the integration of found objects. Her commitment to pushing artistic boundaries is exemplified by her latest venture, using robot vacuums as unconventional paintbrushes.

Amanda's influence extends beyond the studio. As a seasoned curator, she has shaped art collections for prestigious spaces, including Crain Communications, The Gallery at Brewery Park, and Amazon's corporate office. Notably, Amanda has crafted large-scale commissioned collections for offices in Detroit and Chicago, seamlessly integrating art into corporate spaces.

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What do you love about making art?

There are many things I love about making art. I feel that through becoming an artist I have unlocked another level of who I am and I am more honest within myself. My work is abstract expressionism so I use my work as a form of therapy to move myself through life. While I am painting I process things and think a little deeper, it also allows me to step away from the hustle and bustle of being a wife and mother and do something i truly enjoy. It lifts my mood and when I leave the studio I feel like a little kid running home with my latest art piece to share with the world. 

How do you evaluate your work? 

I study my work all the time. I analyze what I like or don't like, why, and the colors and textures. I use a lot of found objects in my mark-making and paint spreading, so I analyze that, too. It has to be fun, or it is not worth it. 

Where is your studio, and what is your primary work area? I have a studio in downtown Dearborn, 10 min south of Detroit. It is located in the Dearborn City Hall ArtSpace. My primary work area is the floor, I have installed hooks to work on the wall, but I tend to go in cycles with my work between the wall and the floor. 

What clues or questions do you use to select an idea to invest time and resources? 

I see things different than others and it will spark inspiration. If that inspiration is there when I can approach the canvas next time then I know it is worth the time and resources. Often I will have one idea for a piece then the next time I get to the canvas I may go a completely different way. It continues like that until something happens in the piece which I cannot afford to lose and I enter the finalization stage. 

"Repurpose your work if you are going to throw it away, or gift it. Art supplies are expensive so always try to reuse."

About your work: what do you hope people notice the most?

Texture, and I think they do. I put alot of time and effort in pushing and pulling specific areas of each piece. 

What is your favorite guilty pleasure?

Free stuff that could end up in my artwork. This is something I also struggle with, I was just gifted the Grand Prix banners from the City of Detroit. I have no idea what I am going to do with them but I do know 200sq ft of my studio is up to 3ft high in banners. Want a banner?

How do you define success as a creative? How do you hold yourself accountable?

Success as a creative as been a theme in my mind for a while and everyone has their own opinion on it based on their goals. For me, my goal was to use art as a tool to help with happy. Producing made me happy, so I did that. Then it started to sell, so my next goal was to sell enough for a studio outside of my home. I will try anything once, feel what resonates with me and see where the opportunities take me. I am lucky, I get the freedom to go where it takes me and what feels right. Success for me is one step a little further in the direction I didnt know i needed to go. Growth. Expansion. The ultimate happy.

What advice do you have about throwing away work?

Repurpose your work if you are going to throw it away, or gift it. Art supplies are expensive so always try to reuse. 

How can people follow you and your work?

IG/FB: @amandakossart or www.amandakossart.com

I can't thank you enough for taking time out of your schedule to talk with me/us Amanda. If I come across any cool free stuff, I'll think of you too. Please come back whenever you have something to share with the ChC audience!