Elaine Emery Bedell
For Elaine Emery Bedell, fine artist and gallery manager of The Art Center Cooperative, Inc., art is all about perspective.
“It’s a way of seeing things,” Bedell says. “Artists see things differently. Most people may see a tree, but there’s more to it than just that. There are different lights, shadows, forms.”
Bedell says she’s always seen things from a different perspective, through the eyes of an artist. In fact, she says she’s been practicing art since drawing her own cartoons as a young child.
Though she still does draw, Bedell is most passionate about painting.
“I start mentally painting things when I see them now,” she says. “I spend a lot of time looking for the next subject to paint because I like to stretch my boundaries.”
Bedell has taken that very passion and dedication for her painting and applied it to The Art Center Cooperative, Inc. as well.
The center’s West Adams Street location is a gallery where artists can receive instruction and feedback, Bedell says. It’s also a place where visitors can simply gain a better understanding and appreciation for art.
The center’s second location is at 111 E. Bay St. and includes two studios for artists.
Bedell says both locations are still works in progress, a process that she enjoys and also applies to her work.
“My favorite part is the actual process of preparing and watching everything unfold until it’s all finished.”