CityView Magazine

34 | November/December 2015 As Ard continues to grow as a person over time, so does his art. When describ- ing his inspiration Ard emphasized, "the underlying message of being positive and happy is still the same. I want to stay cur- rent with what people are buying, so I will be able to be a positive force for the many that need that encouragement. I would hate to know I work so hard to stay the same! Change is good... It shows GROWTH!" Another way he adapts to growing as an artist is keeping even him- self on his toes. He does this by constantly changing things up within his studio. Ard said, "Recently, my favorite materials to use would be watercolors. I love the trans- parency and how it flows with calligraphy. I really like to keep things fresh, so next week that could mean acrylics or pastels. I don't like to get bored with a medium or my art, so I'm always changing." Just as his style develops over time and his use of mediums may change week to week, the different seasons bring constant inspiration to this eccentric artist. "My favorite theme to play around with would have to be the seasons! We all love holi- days and traditions especially here in the south. Each season has its holidays and they always make people smile. No matter what season we are in, we always start to look forward to the next - that keeps me going." He continued, "My favorite season to interpret would be fall! Fall is like an awakening for me. It gives you a sense of togetherness and family. I know as soon as fall is over that winter is on its way and that's my hibernation time and a chance to work on collections in the studio for the coming year. Fall marks the beginning of my personal calendar year." A colorful season such as fall packs some serious aesthetics into three short months. Colorful leaves, gourds and the smell of warm cinnamon, all of this won- derful imagery and senses of fall reflect perfectly in his seasonal art. "e things I can't live without in my studio would be great music such as Frank Sinatra and Melody Gardot and a candle that fits the smell of the season," explained Ard. At this time of year, the scent is undoubtedly pumpkin spice! e change of seasons is not the only thing that inspires Ard. Muses play an im- portant role in his creative process. "My JUNIOR LEAGUE OF FAYETTEVILLE Women building better communities Community Research and Project Development (CR/PD) grant applications are now available and are due December 31, 2015. Grant applications are available on our website. 2605 Fort Bragg Road, Fayetteville, NC 28303 910.323.5509 | www.jlfay.org

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