By Mason Edwards, Chattanooga Times Free Press
Cindy Procious's passion for art started at 8 years old when her mother realized she had fewer presents than her siblings at Christmas. So her mom went to the drugstore to buy her one of those little art kits that come in a case with a handle, Procious explains. She's been making art ever since.
Inspired by Dutch old masters like Rembrandt and Van Dyck, Procious's work blends naturalism and realism. She paints everyday subject matter, like milkshakes and onion rings. Her favorite part of art is connecting with people, whether unveiling a portrait that brings clients to tears or creating still lifes that celebrate someone's favorite snack. "Art is about capturing the beauty of our human existence," Procious reflects. "The whole experience of life has light and darkness, and I try to show that in my paintings."
Her piece "Woman on Giraffe" is a portrait of Connie Stephens, owner of Eclipse Spa Salon, as commissioned by Stephens' son. When Procious learned that Stephens is "obsessed with giraffe print," she wanted to paint her riding a giraffe. The 4-foot-tall painting includes a baby giraffe, added to guide the viewer's eye. "Plus, it's just so darn cute," Procious adds.
Although this painting is a creative rendering, and the backdrop of the Walnut Street Bridge was just meant to give it a local feel, Procious says, "People always ask me, 'When did they have giraffes in Coolidge Park?' and, 'Why didn't I know about that?' Now the painting hangs in [Stephens'] salon, and it's a big conversation piece for her."
Fun fact: Procious once pulled a nun out of a burning vehicle. "This sweet little old lady, who could barely see over the steering wheel, was just sitting there as her car filled up with smoke," Procious says. "I got my good karma for a lifetime that day."
SEE MORE: View more of Cindy Procious's art on her Facebook page, and on Instagram, @cindyprocious. Visit her online collection at cindyprocious.com.
NOTE: Although artist Cindy Procious is married to Chattanooga Times Free Press employee Clay Bennett, her feature in this publication was not influenced by their relationship. Procious was selected for coverage independently, based on her work showcased at Area 61 Gallery.
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