By Helen Reichert
Artist Maddie Hahn
Maddie Hahn is an impressionist inspired artist, based in Colorado, who creates works of various mediums that delve deep into the understanding of memory, and how memory can connect to the incredibly deep feelings of empathy and love in her life. From rich textures such as quilts, all the way to landscape paintings and prints, Maddie uses these tools to link her emotions to these striking designs uniquely.
Studying at the University of Colorado Boulder in the Bachelor of Fine Arts program, Maddie created her canvassed collage titled I Can’t Stay Where My Feet Are for her senior thesis, which perfectly describes her art style; eccentric, yet bold and soft at the same time. Join us as we sit down with Maddie Hahn to explore her art and creative process.
How long have you been making art?
I grew up in a wonderfully artistic family, so creativity has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. Although I did ceramics for all four years of high school, that is what inspired me to pursue art professionally.
When would you say your artistic style really developed?
The atmosphere at CU, specifically the close quarters of the BFA studios, genuinely made my art what it is today. Having so many talented and inspiring people around me made my artistic growth feel so natural. I would argue the toughest adjustment in post-grad life has been the lack of community.
Who are some artists who are inspirations to you?
Since exploring textiles as a process and as a medium I have turned to artists such as Faith Ringgold, Patricia Kelly, and Marcella Marcella (one of CU’s graduate students during my undergrad. Additionally, I follow Kendal Ross on Instagram, and I am truly obsessed with the way she has merged “fine art” with knitting. I also see the media I consume reflected in my work. For example, I have been listening to Adrienne Lenker’s music (and Big Thief). Similarly, I just finished the book Bluets, written by Maggie Nelson. I see these themes expressed in what I make. And, of course, with my practice based in painting, I am and always will be inspired by Van Gogh, both his method of painting, and his understanding of art as a lifestyle.
Maddie Hahn's A Half-Remembered Dream, available at Rainy Days Gallery
What sort of mediums are you drawn to and why are they your favorite to use?
I think painting will always be my first love of art. I am proud of the ways I have grown as a painter. And the perspective I have come to know both in technical skill and soul that the medium allows. I am finding joy in the process of experimentation in the materiality of painting, or more specifically, canvas. Here, I have been incorporating sewing, embroidery, and quilting. These two mediums together make space for my two favorite things in art: texture and color.
How would you describe your artistic process?
I describe my artistic process as intuitive. I try to begin a project with a technique or feeling and let that guide the process. I try to avoid too much planning and structure (which is hard for my type-a brain). Finally, I find I am guided best by my writing. This allows the process to be natural and peaceful but still an exploration of an idea or emotion.
What would you say are your main goals as an artist?
My main goal as an artist is to teach. My biggest inspirations in my artistic career have been my teachers and professors. I want to be able to provide that space for young artists as well.
Maddie Hahn's Cherryvale Road, available at Rainy Days Gallery
What are you currently working on?
I’m currently working on a diptych exploring the materiality of painting through the process of combining painting with quilting. Thematically, I have been ruminating on change, growth, and unapologetically taking up space.
What was one of your proudest moments as an artist?
The Rainy Days Gallery opening event is immediately what comes to mind. I felt so celebrated and surrounded by love.
What advice would you give to young artists-or even a younger version of yourself-just starting out?
If I could offer advice to a younger Maddie, I would tell her to embrace her sensitivity, feel her feelings, and do it proudly. While I was at the New York Academy of Art and experiencing a moment of self-doubt, I remember (while actively crying) that “I’ll be okay. I just need to be less sensitive to criticism.” While there is some truth to this, and he and I both knew that, he instead told me something along the lines of, “No, your sensitivity is part of your art; I see it in your touch- don’t lose your sensitivity, don’t lose your touch.” exactly what I needed to hear. That empathy, care, and vulnerability are intrinsic to my art. The delicacy and the quiet speak just as much as the imagery and composition. I think about this often.
Maddie Hahn's I Never Stay Where My Feet Are, available at Rainy Days Gallery
Come see Maddie’s incredible art at Rainy Days Gallery, or check out our other blog post about her poetry written to accompany each work of art!