Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Artist at work
Live action painting with Anita van Rooyen
BELLA VISTA — In the world of art, there are those who create masterpieces behind closed doors, meticulously crafting their work in solitude. Then there are artists like Anita van Rooyen who thrive on the challenge of live painting, capturing the essence of events and performances as they unfold before their eyes.
Anita’s journey into the realm of live painting is a testament to her artistic evolution. “I have always been an artist and a painter, but nothing really excited me when it came to painting,” she confessed. “I hadn’t found what made me unique as an artist.”
After trying various mediums and subjects, she stumbled upon a form of expression that ignited her passion.
It was during a visit to Eureka Springs a few years back that Anita sketched a quick portrait of someone she encountered and gave it to them as a gift. The recipient’s joy and appreciation sparked a revelation; she loved the idea of people witnessing her artistic process in real time.
Soon after, she discovered that music venues in the Ozarks invited live painters to create art during live performances, providing audiences with a front row seat to the creative process.
Anita’s artistic background and knack for quick sketches uniquely positioned her for this endeavor. She became known for her ability to complete entire paintings swiftly, a talent that sets her apart in the world of live painting.
When it comes to her live painting setup, Anita keeps it minimal and practical. Her toolkit includes a few small canvases, an easel, a small table for her paints and brushes, and even an umbrella for unpredictable weather conditions. She primarily works with acrylic paints, allowing for rapid drying and ease of transport, but she’s not afraid to experiment with oil and watercolors when inspiration strikes.
However, the road to becoming a skilled live painter is not without its challenges. Anita shared that her biggest hurdle is the fear of creating something unlikable while being observed, and the pressure to excel in a public setting can be overwhelming. Nevertheless, she’s learned to trust her creative instincts and to embrace flexibility when faced with unexpected obstacles, such as adverse weather conditions or limited space.
Before each live painting session, Anita meticulously prepares by making lists, considering logistics, and understanding the event’s vibe. She believes that capturing an event is about more than just its physical aspects; it’s about conveying the atmosphere and excitement. This dedication to preparation shines through in her work.
One of Anita’s most memorable live painting experiences happened at a family member’s wedding. Despite being relatively new to live painting at the time, she was entrusted with capturing the couple’s special day. The joy of creating art in such a meaningful context left a lasting impression.
Anita’s approach to live painting is a careful balance between planning and spontaneity. While she pre-plans aspects like the background, she dedicates the majority of her time to capturing the dynamic movement and interactions of people. She thrives on the challenge of quickly translating the energy of a live event onto her canvas.
The reactions from her audience are overwhelmingly positive. Spectators often express amazement at her speed and skill, with many remarking that they could never do what she does. Anita takes these moments to encourage others, emphasizing that everyone has their unique artistic expression and should enjoy the creative process without undue pressure.
As for her live painting schedule, Anita seizes every opportunity to practice her craft, balancing it with a fulltime job and family commitments. She offers her services at weddings and local events, making her mark on the artistic landscape of her community.
Anita draws inspiration from both local artists and renowned live painters like Keith “Scramble” Campbell and Frenchy. Their influence has shaped her unique style of capturing live events and performances.
For aspiring live painters and artists seeking to explore this unique form of expression, Anita offers valuable advice: network, be confident, practice relentlessly and never stop learning. She believes that every artist is an individual with their own unique voice and style.
Anita van Rooyen’s live painting not only contributes to the atmosphere of events but also creates lasting mementos that capture the spirit of the moment. Her art adds a unique layer of experience to any occasion, making it memorable for both participants and spectators.
As for what lies ahead, fans and followers can catch Anita van Rooyen at the Bella Vista Farmers Market until the season ends, with hopes of returning next year. Additionally, she will be showcasing her live painting skills at the Hillberry Music Festival and the Ozark Mountain Music Festival in Eureka Springs, both of which promise diverse musical lineups and vibrant artistic experiences.
Anita’s live paintings are more than just art; they are a dynamic celebration of life’s moments, capturing the energy, emotion and beauty of every event she attends. In the world of live painting, Anita van Rooyen’s brush strokes are truly unforgettable.