BmoreArt

SUBJECT: Beth-Ann Wilson, 39
PLACE: Night Owl Gallery  
WEBSITE: www.night-owl-gallery.com, www.bethannwilson.com  
INSTAGRAM: @night_owl_gallery, @bettypaints

What do you believe is art’s role and function in local and global communities?

I see art as a vital force that CONNECTS local and global communities. Locally, art fosters community engagement by bringing people together through relevant exhibitions, events and workshops, creating a sense of belonging and dialogue. It offers a platform for personal expression, allowing individuals to share their stories and emotions, while also boosting local economies by attracting visitors and supporting local artisans.

Art also enhances the quality of life by transforming public spaces, addressing social issues, and promoting healing. On a global scale, art transcends language barriers, fostering cultural exchange and understanding. It raises awareness about global issues like climate change and human rights, inspiring action and positive change. Art builds bridges across divides, uniting people through shared experiences.

How would you describe the relationship between creativity, change, and ‘transformation’?

I see creativity, change, and transformation as deeply interconnected. Creativity is the spark that ignites new ideas and perspectives. It’s the driving force behind innovation and the ability to envision possibilities beyond the status quo.

Change happens when creative ideas are put into action. It’s the process of implementing new concepts, reshaping existing structures, and challenging the way things are. Change often requires a leap of faith and a willingness to embrace uncertainty, and I believe it’s essential for growth and progress.

Transformation is the impact of change. It’s the ultimate outcome of sustained creative efforts and meaningful changes. Transformation signifies a fundamental shift in how we perceive, interact with, and understand the world around us.

Through Night Owl Gallery, I work to nurture creativity to inspire change and foster transformation. By supporting artists and showcasing diverse works, we create a space where new ideas can flourish and drive positive change.

Where do you go when you need to clear your head? What is one of your favorite spots in Baltimore?

I find solace and clarity in the great outdoors. When I need to clear my head, I love to escape to nature. Being outside rejuvenates my spirit and helps me find balance.  It took me a long time to come to this realization—that I need to get active outside and that I really enjoy things like backpacking and stand-up paddleboarding.  My husband Sean grew up in a family that camped (I did not!) and over time has shown me how wonderful it can be to unplug and get away! I was very skeptical at first but have come to love being away from civilization. Our last big trip was hiking the Wonderland Trail in Washington State over the course of 10 days. The natural world offers a sense of peace and perspective that is invaluable for both my personal well-being and my creative endeavors.

My favorite spot in Baltimore for getting away on a smaller scale is Patterson Park. It is so valuable having this green space right in my backyard and I never want to take it for granted.  

In addition to running Night Owl Gallery, you are also a painter. How would you describe your artistic/creative process and practice?

My artistic and creative process is deeply rooted in finding beauty and inspiration in the ordinary, the gritty, and the everyday aspects of urban life. Baltimore is a city full of contrasts—its raw, unpolished edges juxtaposed with moments of unexpected beauty. This dichotomy fuels my creativity.

I am drawn to the textures, colors, and stories that unfold in the overlooked corners of the city. Peeling paint, rusted metal, and weathered buildings tell tales of history and resilience. I am inspired by these elements and aim to capture their essence in my work. During COVID quarantine I made some videos about this and shared them on YouTube. Here is the link to the first in the series if you want to watch.

My process often begins with photography. I take pictures of scenes that catch my eye—whether it’s a graffiti-covered wall, a forgotten alleyway, a strip mall, or a crowded bus stop. These images serve as reference points and inspiration for my paintings. In the studio, I translate these urban elements onto canvas, using bold strokes, mixed media, and a vivid color palette to evoke the emotions and energy of the city.

I embrace imperfection and the unexpected in my work. Just as the city’s landscape is ever-changing, my creative process is fluid and adaptive. I experiment with different materials and techniques, allowing the artwork to evolve organically. This approach mirrors the dynamic nature of urban life, where beauty is found in the most unlikely places and moments.

Through my art, I strive to highlight the unique character and spirit of my home and the places I visit. I want to show that there is profound beauty in the gritty and the ordinary, and that every corner has a story to tell. My creative practice is a celebration of the urban experience and an exploration of the overlooked.

Night Owl Gallery has held solo exhibitions of your work, as well as group shows with local artists. How does the Baltimore community inspire and/or influence your use of the exhibition space?  

I am continually inspired and influenced by the vibrancy and diversity of my community and contemporaries. My mind is blown by the talent I see all over our city in exhibitions and behind closed doors. What drives me is the idea that Night Owl Gallery along with its studios, workshop space, and programming, is not just a venue for displaying art; it’s a collaborative hub where artists and the community intersect, creating a synergy that drives our mission.

Baltimore is a city of storytellers, and this deeply influences how we curate and utilize our exhibition space. We’ve hosted solo exhibitions of my work and numerous shows featuring fellow local and regional artists, each bringing their unique voice and perspective. The Baltimore community’s support and engagement are vital to the gallery’s direction and success, and we strive to reflect the city’s character in our programming.

The community’s influence is evident in our commitment to showcasing emerging talent. We’ve been instrumental in launching and sustaining careers, providing a platform for artists to present their work to a broader audience. By offering solo exhibitions, we give artists the space to fully express their vision and narrative. These shows often serve as a catalyst for further opportunities, helping artists gain wider recognition.

Group shows at Night Owl Gallery foster a sense of community among artists, encouraging collaboration and the exchange of ideas. These exhibitions bring together a diverse array of styles and mediums, reflecting the eclectic nature of Baltimore’s art scene. They create a vibrant dialogue between the works, inspiring both artists and visitors.  

Our gallery’s role extends beyond exhibitions; we are deeply invested in the success and growth of our artists. We provide mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities, helping artists navigate their careers and connect with broader markets. This commitment to artist development is a direct reflection of the supportive and collaborative spirit of the Baltimore community.

In essence, the Baltimore community inspires us to create an inclusive, dynamic, and nurturing space for artists. Night Owl Gallery is a reflection of the city’s resilience, creativity, and diversity. Through our exhibitions and programs, we aim to honor and contribute to Baltimore’s rich cultural legacy, fostering a thriving art scene that benefits both artists and the community at large.

What motivates you while you’re working in your studio? Do you listen to anything while painting?

My motivation in the studio comes from being able to escape “everyday life”.  Of course I love painting and when I’m in the studio it is almost like being on vacation. While each painting is an opportunity to explore and express the unique character of the places and people that surround me, it is at a distance removed from the subject.

While working in my studio, I love to listen to audiobooks—mostly thrillers and suspense novels! Don’t judge, but some of my favorites are those by Stephen King and Karin Slaughter. Their ability to create intricate, compelling narratives keep my mind engaged and stoke my imagination. The suspense and depth of their stories often mirror the layers and complexity I strive to bring to my artwork. As I paint, the audiobooks create a backdrop of tension and intrigue, adding an extra dimension to my creative process.

Listening to audiobooks helps me enter a flow state, where I can fully focus on my work and let my intuition guide my brushstrokes. Sometimes my least favorite part of listening to a book is when it ends and I have to take the time to browse for a new one! Occasionally I’ll listen to old favorites again, especially if I like the narrator. One such book that I have listened to many times is Night Film: A Novel by Marisha Pessl.  

What’s your favorite animal and/or plant? Why?

The duck-billed platypus. Hear me out: this unique creature, with its blend of seemingly disparate traits, mirrors my approach to art and life. The platypus is kind of an abomination, combining features of mammals, birds, and reptiles into one weird little creature. Its existence challenges conventional categories and reminds us of the beauty found in diversity and unexpected combinations.

In my art, I strive to capture this same sense of wonder and complexity. Just as the platypus brings together different elements in a harmonious and intriguing way, I blend various textures, colors, and materials to create works that reflect the multifaceted nature of urban life. The grit and beauty of Baltimore, with its contrasting scenes and hidden stories, inspire me to explore and celebrate these juxtapositions.

The platypus also symbolizes adaptability and resilience, qualities that are essential in both art and life, especially as an artist and entrepreneur. Its ability to thrive in diverse environments encourages me to remain open to new ideas and to embrace the unpredictable nature of the creative process.  

I have a small collection of platypus art in my home.

What’s your go-to comfort food?  

This may be the hardest question on this list to answer! I love food. I love to cook, I love to go out to eat, I love to watch cooking shows and talk about food and cooking!  Sharing food is an act of love and community and food security is a huge privilege.  Food can be art and it can also be a political statement or a protest. For taste, satisfaction, and affordability (which all contribute to the “comfort” in comfort food, in my opinion) I am going to say pizza! As a native New Yorker (I’m from Long Island), I grew up with some of the best pizza in the world. I’m a long term vegetarian that made the shift to 100% vegan about seven years ago. In Baltimore, we are very lucky to have some really great pizza places that scratch the itch for a pizza that reminds me of home and also fits my plant-based diet including Johnny Rad’s (my go to), Paulie G’s, and Angeli’s.

Is there anything about your practice or the Gallery that you wish people asked you about more often?  

I’m actually going to turn this question around and say that there is a question I wish I was asked less often! When you see me out and about, rather than asking me, “How is the gallery doing?” Don’t. Please come down and see for yourself! It really is something to be experienced, especially during one of our special events.  

How do you envision Night Owl Gallery influencing change, now and in the future, in Baltimore and beyond?

Our mission has always been to create a space where art thrives and diverse voices are heard, and I believe that we can expand this impact in several transformative ways.

One of my dreams is to establish an artist retreat and residency program. This space would be dedicated to de-commodifying art, shifting the focus from commercial success to pure creative expression. By providing artists with time, resources, and a supportive environment, we can foster a community where creativity is nurtured without the pressures of market demands or individual financial needs. This retreat would serve as a sanctuary for artists to explore their craft, experiment with new ideas, and engage in meaningful dialogue with fellow creatives.

A crucial aspect of this vision is uplifting the voices of underserved communities. Baltimore is rich with talent and stories that often go unheard, and our retreat would prioritize artists from these communities, offering them the platform and resources to share their unique perspectives. By amplifying these voices, we can contribute to a more inclusive and representative art world, where diversity is celebrated, and new narratives are brought to the forefront.

In the present, Night Owl Gallery continues to influence change by supporting local artists through exhibitions, workshops, and community events. We strive to make art accessible to all, breaking down barriers and fostering a sense of belonging within the community. Our gallery is a place where artists and art lovers come together, creating connections and inspiring one another.

Looking to the future, I see Night Owl Gallery as a beacon of creativity and inclusivity. My vision is that the artist retreat and residency program will not only benefit regional artists but also attract talent from across the globe, creating a vibrant exchange of ideas and cultures. By focusing on de-commodifying art and uplifting underserved voices, we can challenge the traditional art market and contribute to a more equitable and dynamic art world.

Ultimately, Night Owl Gallery aims to be a leader in fostering creativity, inclusivity, and positive change. Through our ongoing efforts and future initiatives, we hope to inspire others to recognize the transformative power of art and to join us in creating a world where every artist’s voice can be heard and celebrated.