Using a combination of digital painting and photo manipulation techniques, Birmingham native Beth Conklin creates work she describes as recycled dreamscapes.
Artist: The Alabama native was born and raised in Birmingham. She graduated from the University of Alabama with a degree in mechanical engineering and worked as an environmental engineer for ExxonMobil for 13 years.
Conklin “retired” when her daughter was born. During that time, she took a few photography classes at night and taught herself Photoshop, the tool she uses for her digital art.
In addition to her personal work, Conklin has also worked on commercial projects, including book covers and promotional materials for authors and publishers.
Company/studio: Here On Earth, based in Birmingham, started in 2011. Conklin, a self-described computer nerd with an iMAC, works on a desk (her studio) next to the seldom used kitchen.
Conklin says her company is inspired by the Kurt Vonnegut quote: “We are here on Earth to fart around, and don’t let anybody tell you any different.”
“I wanted to remind myself to have fun with my art,” said Conklin.
Art & process: Each work starts with a vintage photograph. Then Conklin digitally collages other images, layers, textures, and colors together.
“Most often I am inspired by song lyrics or book quotes that I post with each final work on my various sites,” said Conklin.
What’s popular: Her 8 x10 digital collage prints ($20) on her Etsy shop. For art shows and galleries, she mounts works up to 16 x 20 on painted wood panels ($20 to $159).
Favorite tool: Adobe Photoshop.
Inspiration: Digital artist Maggie Taylor.
Fun or unusual commissions: A client that let me take his great aunt’s head off and put it in her lap with a flower growing out of her neck.
Awards/honors: Two patron awards she received at Kentuck Festival of the Arts in Northport, AL, in 2015 and 2021.
Recent project: Conklin’s new book, “Here on Earth” available on Blurb ($59)
https://www.blurb.com/b/11885582-here-on-earth
Where to buy:
- Hereonearthdigitalart.com
- Etsy.com
- Four Seasons Gallery, Homewood, AL.
- Kentuck Art Center, Northport, AL.
Get social:
- Facebook: Here on Earth.
- Instagram: @hereonearthdigitalart
