Interview: Ms. Annie Haslam Singer, Songwriter, Artist
Greetings Annie, thank you for taking time from your work to answer this e-mail interview.
Art:
Let’s chat about your art work:
When did you start acquiring a love for the visual arts? How has painting changed your life?
I started painting completely unexpectedly in late May 2002.
It has opened my eyes to a different world.........although color and sound are really the same. It has given me a freedom that I did not have with singing. With painting there is no one else to worry about, it is all me .....OR all me and wherever the images come from.
Some may not be aware that Annie had an early interest in fashion design. Did you enjoy drawing during your school days?
I did, and wanted to be a dress designer. I went to Art School to study that. However I never attempted an oil painting and only ever did one water color, which was not all that good! I studied fabric design and photography (which also is a big love of mine!)
As an illustrator/art teacher, I admire your excellent use of color. Have you had any formal training in the fine arts (such as composition and design, perspective, etc.)?
I did learn perspective at one stage but to be quite honest forgot what I had learned. I did not really learn about composition either........
Your work appears very fluid- , full of warmth and spirituality. From where do your inspirational ideas originate?
I have no preconceived ideas at all before I paint.
Whatever comes, comes, always a surprise!
Do you have an ideal place to paint?
I have a studio which is nearly all glass.
Bucks County is an artist’s mecca. How do you like living in this community?
I like Bucks County very much, and you are right, it is rich in Artists........
What paints do you use? (brands, colors) Do you work from a limited palette?
I use Windsor and Newton oil paints also M. Graham Walnut Oil paint. I realised that I needed to find an alternative for oil paint as I didn't realise how toxic they are. The Walnut oil is really a great substitute but does not really work on large canvases (not the way I work anyway). I have also started to wear surgical gloves and a mask as I began to feel my throat being affected by fumes.
I also work in acrylics. I use many colors and don't put a limit on anything.
For your many fans, please explain the typical Annie Haslam `painting day’ in detail!
No day is the same. When I get the urge I just go into my studio and paint. Sometimes I listen to music, sometimes complete silence.
Which is your favorite painting to date? Why?
That is like asking me my favourite song that I have sung. I have many favourites, but I guess one of the faves is 'Melinka', it is the spirit of an Alpacca of the same name.
It is very special because I have met the Alpacca and I painted it for her when she was not well. I made a print of the painting and it was hung in her stall. She would spend time sitting by it when all the other Alpaccas' were outside enjoying the day, almost as if she knew why I had done it.
Who is your favorite artist?
Leonardo Da Vinci
Have you ventured into the medium of sculpture?
No.
To many of us, your art appears to be an extension of your singing style- quite heavenly. Will you ever create paintings based on your songs- past and present?
I have already started doing that with David Sancious.
He has written an instrumental piece for 'Melinka'.
And we have written a love song called 'Heart Song', which is also a painting. I would not do paintings of past songs because they have nothing to do with what my life is now.
What are your future goals in terms of your artwork?
I hope to bring healing through my work.
The reactions so far have been very exciting.
People are getting great pleasure from the color and depth that I seem to be creating. Its almost like I am creating 'little worlds' for folks to escape to......
Personal:
As a cancer survivor, obviously you managed a difficult period in your life. Would you be open to sharing with us- what helped you through that time?
Music helped me through that time in my life.
Friends and family too....
Switching gears, who is your favorite author? Movie? Food? Hobbies? Do you have any pets?
I rarely read.........
Favourite movie is: 'AMADEUS'
Hobbies: don't have time for hobbies, however I love Photography and enjoy cooking!
Music:
What is your favorite Renaissance song? How about your favorite Annie Haslam band song? Please explain both choices.
Again hard to choose.......I would say 'Ocean Gypsy' from 'Scheherazade and other Stories'.
I just love the emotion of it and music.
Solo choice...mmmmmmm 'Precious One' from 'The Dawn of Ananda'. this was the first time I had written a song with Michael Dunford and I am very proud of it. It is the true story of a little boy who died and came back in spirit form to let his Mother know he was with her and alright.
What was going through your head (and heart), on the evening of the final Renaissance gig in 1987?
Sadness.......
Do you keep in contact with any of your former band mates?
I stay in touch with Michael Dunford and Terry Sullivan.
Okay, a variation on the classic deserted island question- You can only have Three CD albums, one type of food, one magazine, one type of drink, one book, one movie and one type of pet on this deserted island- what would you bring and why?
I would rather pass on this one..........
On the Nearfest forum, someone asked- Why weren’t there any female singers performing? One person replied- that he thought it was a sin that the best singer in the house (Annie Haslam) wasn't talked into singing something. Of course the person didn't understand that you were an exhibitor at Nearfest who took so much time to greet and chat with fans- old and new. In addition to exhibiting your paintings, is there a possibility of an Annie Haslam band performance at a festival like Nearfest/Rosfest or do you prefer smaller more intimate venues?
Nearfest is known for its eclectic music. I do not fit into that 'box'. I am not interested in going backwards into my music career. Progressive music has had its day for me and that was the 70's. The 'new' Progrock scene does not appeal to me and anyway, it is time for others to get their music out there.
I just did some shows with David Sancious which were very successful, but I am not planning anymore at this time.
This year, we were amazed to see classic Gentle Giant on DVD as well as classic Camel. Will we ever see Renaissance and Annie Haslam shows (like the Park West Chicago show in 1984) on video?
As far as Renaissance, not that I know about.
I have a solo show that was recorded in 1997 (I think) that will be coming out on DVD on 'Voiceprint' in the UK in the next few months.
What is your opinion of today’s progressive music performers?
To be quite honest I know very few.
One last question Annie, do you have any advice for aspiring singers?
I suggest getting training from someone who teaches opera as I did. The music business is very difficult to break into and can be elating as well as disappointing. It is rare (but not impossible) for people to make it in this business so I suggest also having another trade to fall back on........I am being honest because I think it is important. If you have a 'gift' then put your heart and soul into it but keep your eyes wide open....
Thank you so much for this interview, Annie. Keep on creating amazing music. Best Wishes and thank you for sharing your answers and thoughts.
