Artist Spotlight | Derin Fletcher
Photo by Mull Media
When Derin Fletcher first began her journey with art, she firmly believed that paint was the only medium capable of truly bringing her work to life. It seemed as though no other medium could match its potential. As a result, she ventured into experimenting with a variety of mediums until she discovered a few favorites. One particular medium, colored pencil, resonated with her most deeply. It was the unique challenge it presented in contrast to paint that truly intrigued her.
It wasn't a smooth ride; Derin's path to mastery was marked by bouts of frustration and impatience, and littered with numerous torn-out sketchbook pages. But it was precisely these struggles that ultimately paved the way to a successful career as a colored pencil artist. Her ability to manipulate pencils in a way that rivals the fluidity of wet mediums is what continuously fuels her drive as a creator and an educator.
Derin is an inspiration to other artists, encouraging them to persist in the face of challenges and adversity. She continues to navigate her art career without any barriers or limits, a philosophy clearly reflected in her work. Through her journey, Derin demonstrates the vast potential of artistic mediums beyond paint, pushing the boundaries of creativity and redefining the art of colored pencils. Learn more about Derin at www.derinfletcher.com.
Tell us about your artistic journey.
I’ve been creating since high school, but acrylic paint has always been my choice of medium. But in 2018, I decided to start back with colored pencils and oil paint again after almost ten years. I began to get good at both, but in 2020 during the pandemic was when I truly took off with colored pencils.
What do you hope to convey through your art?
I hope to show that anything is possible through my artwork. We are all capable of doing and creating some magical things.
Can you walk us through your creative process?
Music. I always start off setting my tone and vibe with the right music before I get started with any piece. Then that’s when I start my color studies to choose the colors I want to incorporate in each portrait before fully diving.
What impact do you hope your art has on the Akron community?
I hope my Art help shines a light on the Akron art community in general. I feel like Akron is rarely talked about or acknowledged regarding conversations or art in Ohio or surrounding areas.
What are you most excited about regarding the Akron + Park Collective?
I’m most excited about sharing my knowledge and skills with the community and them having the opportunity to showcase those same skills in an instillation.
