Stephanie Trick has found that painting has given her a release from the “high” of performing, and the results have been most impressive. This paint-on-the-go hobby could well develop into a second career for this talented stride pianist.
“My grandparents on my dad’s side were florists in Santa Maria, California,” Stephanie remembers. “Growing up, I admired the color plates of botanical studies lining their walls. I think that subconsciously inspired me. I took basic art classes when I was fairly young and started drawing botanical subjects about five years ago, using some brush pens (that are basically blendable markers) I found while in Tokyo. A year later, I started working with watercolor which has a greater range of expression.”
“I get inspiration for painting on tour. Paolo (Alderighi) and I sometimes find ourselves in places with beautiful natural surroundings. When we go for walks, I take copious photos of wildflowers. When I receive flowers after concerts, I take photos of them to paint later since I can't take them with me. Painting helps me unwind after concerts and makes me feel closer to nature.”
Ideal Hobby for Traveling
“I love being able to mix my own colors and have more expression that way. Water
Trumpeter James O’Donnell: The Motor City Jazz Maestro
Brian Sheridan
