YabYum Seven: Charmagne Coe

Who are you and what do you do?

My name is Charmagne Coe and I am a surrealist. I paint and draw with watercolor, ink and pastel.

How did you get your start?

Growing up, my family was a terra firma of creative, industrious souls, who always encouraged me to pursue my artistic interests. At NAU, I earned a minor in art, then a BA in elementary education. I taught as a public school teacher for nine years and ran a small fiber arts business with my husband for three. In 2008, I began another chapter to follow my artistic roots. While raising my toddlers in Flagstaff, I found myself by their side painting one day, and the feeling was like coming home. I carved a small niche in our utility craft room and continued where I left off in college, exploring painting and drawing in several media. I began showing work in Flagstaff, then later Los Angeles, Phoenix, London and Seattle.

Diviners, 2016

What inspires you?

Everyone, everything, everywhere inspires me. My work moves in the direction of ideas related to connectedness — connectedness people have with one another, with their ancestors, with nature… what connects them to another, and makes them more real/whole. It’s an earthy topic, but it’s also pretty out there. When I create, my work is spontaneous — usually started with a spark of an idea, a word or a color, etc. Then away I go. I’m constantly being puzzled and surprised in the process. In the end, I have a story comprised of many different intricate elements.

The Carrier, 2016

What do you like about AZ?

I grew up in mid-town Phoenix in a house built at the turn of the 20th century, and I believe that formed my affinity for the older haunts and architecture in Phoenix. Arizona has a multicultural population with many rich traditions deeply woven into our culture. I feel fortunate that my life is shaped by this diversity. Also, no matter how many times I travel this state with my family, it’s always intriguing how varied the geography and habitats are here. I read that we have almost all of the biomes represented… that’s really wild to think about.

Where can we see you(r) work?

You can view my work at {9} The Gallery, The Artery and online at charmagnecoe.com.

Locus For One Another, 2016

What would you like to accomplish before you die?

I want to continue to use my abilities to serve my family, friends and community. I always want to stretch my skills as an artist, but still remain authentic to creating work out of love and appreciation for life.

What is your mantra?

It’s a line from the song, “Nature Boy”, by Eden Ahbez:

The greatest thing you’ll ever learn
Is just to love and be loved in return.

~

When the Lines Disappear, I Am not Afraid With You, 2014

The Verse of Flora’s Gate, 2017