Meet Aspen VanHooser | Spatial Mixed Media Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Aspen VanHooser and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Aspen, is there a quote or affirmation that’s meaningful to you?
“It always seems impossible until it is done.” – Nelson Mandela

These words have carried me through some of life’s grandest trials. Throughout my artistic career, I have had the honor of creating countless large-scale art installations. Each time I pick up a paint brush and stare at the proverbial blank canvas before me, I pause and meditate on Nelson’s words. I am comforted by the notion that the anticipation of completion is almost always worse than the simple act of finishing.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As a Spatial Mixed Media Artist, I make immersive experiences and environments that connect with the viewer. Each time I create, the audience is presented with an opportunity to escape their own reality and live in mine for a while.

I built part of my career around my seven year tenure with Anthrolopogie as a Visual Display Artist. When I left the brand last year to pursue other ventures, I found that I have continually applied the skills and knowledge I learned to my current experiences. I recently accepted the role of Creative Brand Experience Manager for Fossil Creek Tree Farm and cannot wait to see where this position leads!

One of my favorite forms of artistic expression is building brand experiences for businesses. From designing displays and mapping floor plans to buying product sorts and merchandising, it is an art that has quantifiable results. I love understanding what excites the client and painting the proverbial picture around that.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
As a marathon runner, I have made my way to almost every park and trail in the DFW area. Trinity Trail in Fort Worth and White Rock Lake and KT Trail in Dallas are a few of my constants. All of these trails have their own distinct personality with great hangouts along the way.

Press Cafe is my go-to off of Trinity Trail. They have a fantastic menu (get the avocado toast) and great cocktails. It is perfect for a post-run Sunday morning brunch and the ambiance is as smooth as their coffee.

My husband and I will often bike White Rock Lake and end our ride at The Desert Racer in Dallas. It’s a lovely slice of Tex-Mex with a modern twist.

You can often find me with my sketch book roaming the pathways of the Botanic Gardens in Fort Worth and the Arboretum in Dallas. I feel most at home when I am surrounded by nature and have two very green thumbs to show for it. Much comfort can be harnessed among the wildflowers.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would not be the artist I am today without my Mother, Wendy Polvi. As an artist herself, she encouraged me to pursue me dreams from day one. I have always been involved in the arts and I attribute my unfaltering creative drive to her teachings.

North VanHooser, my husband of 12 years, has also played a huge role in my creative success. He has supported me and championed my talents since we met. It is a gift to have him as the constant anchor in my life.

Website: www.aspenvanhooser.com

Instagram: @aspenvanhoosercreative

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aspenvanhooser/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aspenvanhoosercreative

Other: Twitch: www.twitch.tv/aspenvanhooser