We're starting a new feature on the Westchase Artists Society blog, member of the month. This will be a way for our followers to get to know a little bit about our wonderfully talented members. Each month we'll be featuring a different artist. Our very first featured artist is none other than Toni Crosby. Here's our interview with Toni. Enjoy!
Question: First, tell us a little bit about yourself, affiliations, personal stuff.
Toni: Happily Single Artists, One adult child, no grand kids YET. Staff photographer at my local church, Hospice volunteer, photographer specializing in weddings, special events and website photography.
Question: Apart from creating art what do you do?
Toni: I am a licensed insurance agent. I like to make quilts, I like to bake banana bread sometimes, ride bikes and walk for exercise. And sometimes ride motorcycles just for fun. And I like to sew.
Question: What first made you want to become an artist?
Toni: Since meeting Robert Butler "The Wildlife & Landscape Artist" in 1982, he made me understand I am an artist too.
Question: Describe your creative process.
Toni: It starts with the three P's... Prayer, Preparation and Praise. My artistic talent is my gift from God... when I create it's my praise back to Him.
Question: Top 5 books, movies, songs, groups, websites
Toni: Movie - The Bridges of Madison County; TV - anything on HGTV; Songs - "It's Not Easy Being Green" by Kermit the Frog and "I Feel Good" by the Godfather of Soul, James Brown.
Question: In ten years I'd like to be...
Toni: The owner of my home and artist studio in Florida and working on a large White House Commission.
Thanks Toni for being our very first Artist of the Month!!! Please check out Toni's artwork at Ruth Eckerd Hall if you're there for a show in the East Gallery, through May, 2010 as part of the Westchase Artists Society group art show.
