Featured photos: The Public Art Gallery is located inside the East Lansing Hannah Community Center is showcasing the art of Andrew Schultz.
Illustrations by Andrew Schultz
Shelley Schultz is married to Andrew Schultz, she supports his passion for art. TNCPNEWS photo
By TNCPNEWS Staff
EAST LANSING, MI – Andrew Schultz has no formal training and has been learning to draw by watching internet videos that demonstrate different methods, listening to artist interviews on what works for them, and reading books related to drawing and painting. He also found inspiration in the classic animators of the Golden Era, comic strips, and European comic techniques. His favorite medium is a combination of ink and watercolor, which creates a contrast between black ink and soft watercolors, and is versatile in that he can easily dilute and mix colors.
Schultz has a passion for drawing that started early on in his life, but it wasn’t until later that he was fully able to explore this passion in a more meaningful way. His inclination to draw began at Salem Lutheran Elementary School in Owosso, where he shared an interest in drawing with a good friend named Josh. His parents saw his interest and encouraged him to not only use his imagination but also to make attempts to improve his craft by way of drawing books.
However, there was limited artistic instruction as the school did not have an art teacher. He continued to feel a strong connection to art even during middle school age, despite feeling inadequate when comparing his own work to others. He drew very little during his time attending Corunna High School and for many years thereafter due to limited art opportunities in his community.
It wasn’t until he became a parent that he began to draw more consistently. His children provided him with a new source of inspiration and motivation, and he started to include small drawings in their backpacks or lunchboxes as a way to connect with them during the day. This led to a renewed passion for art, and he began to explore different techniques and mediums to improve his craft.
When Schultz did not have paper, he would use discarded cardboard boxes to draw on or paperboard boxes used for cereal boxes, cake mix boxes, and the like. One of the benefits of using cardboard as a drawing surface is that it is a low-cost and eco-friendly option. Instead of buying expensive art supplies or using paper, he would repurpose materials that might otherwise go to waste. This can also be a fun and engaging way to teach kids about the importance of recycling and being mindful of our impact on the environment.
Schultz said, “I was blessed to have a supportive family who encouraged me to draw whenever I desired, even though there was never an observation of my talent, there was always an observation of my enthusiasm.”
Schultz’s cartoon illustrations and paintings feature subjects called Gercs, who dwell in a mythical place aptly named Gercland. He views his artistic process of art as freeing, as he is only limited by his imagination. It involves subjects that all ages can enjoy and transports him to a place of happiness and limitless possibilities. For many children, his art can bring humor and allow them to see themselves in it, while for many adults, it can be a refuge from what may be an otherwise hectic and stressful lifestyle. Gercland is seen as an emotional oasis — an optimal version of reality where worry is often replaced with optimism and pain is replaced with comfort. The Gercs’ thoughtfulness is encouraged, but ignorance is not looked down upon. Their nature is unusual, beautiful, and unspoiled by societal progression.
Schultz said, “Growing up in a small town, there were limited opportunities for me to learn about art or to pursue it in any formal capacity but my faith in abilities continued to grow. continued to draw whenever he had the chance, finding joy and solace in the creative process. I would say to any emerging artist to educate themselves and be open to having others help or give advice.
Emerging artist
Every artist has to start somewhere, and Shultz trusted Yvette Robinson of the East Lansing Public Art Gallery to mentor him throughout the entire process, from selecting paintings and drawings for the exhibit, creating title cards for each piece, to framing, pricing, promoting his exhibit, hanging and lighting techniques for gallery exhibition, preparations for exhibit openings, etc. Robinson said Schultz absorbed everything like a sponge and was always respectful and courteous.
Robinson exclaimed, “During my initial meeting with Andrew, he made it clear that he had no previous experience with exhibiting his work; neither did he know or understand where to begin the process. I listened to his back story and in that moment I realized, Andrew was a perfect candidate for exhibition at the East Lansing Public Art Gallery. Our collaborations over the months prior to his exhibit opening is how the town of Gercland was created. That idea was followed by the development of the town sign and the inevitable inclusion of Gercland townspeople for the exhibit.”
Gercland is on display at the Hannah Community Center located at 819 Abbot Rd, East Lansing, MI 48823. The art gallery is located on the second floor and the exhibit will be up until May 30th. For those who are interested in supporting emerging artists, there are many ways to do so. One of the simplest ways is by purchasing art from local artists. This not only provides financial support to the artist but also allows the buyer to own a piece of original artwork that can be enjoyed for years to come.
Another way to support emerging artists is by attending art galleries or exhibitions. This provides an opportunity to see the work of multiple artists in one place and to learn more about the creative process. Art galleries also often provide opportunities for artists to sell their work, and many galleries offer affordable prices for original pieces.
Attending art galleries can also provide a range of other benefits. For example, it can be a great way to learn about different artistic styles and techniques, and to gain a deeper appreciation for the creative process. It can also be a social and community-building experience, as art galleries often bring together people from different backgrounds and interests.
There are many other ways to support emerging artists. This might include sharing their work on social media, writing reviews or articles about their work, or simply spreading the word about their talent to friends and family.
Ultimately, supporting emerging artists is not just about promoting individual artists or pieces of artwork. It’s about investing in the growth and development of a vibrant and thriving artistic community. By providing opportunities and resources for artists to showcase their work and improve their skills, communities can help to foster a more creative, innovative, and inspiring world for everyone.
Next steps
The East Lansing Art Festival in 2023 is scheduled to unfold over two days. On May 20th, the festivities will commence at 10 a.m. and conclude at 6 p.m. The following day, May 21st, the event will again start at 10 a.m., but it will wrap up a little earlier, at 5 p.m.
Schultz said, “During this year’s festival, I am thrilled to announce that I will be participating as an ‘Emerging Artist.'”
You can find Schultz showcasing his work at Booth 153. For more information about the 2023 Emerging Artists at the East Lansing Art Festival, please visit the official website at elartfest.com.
