October 14, 2020 Blog
Get to Know Athena Scott
Get to know Cherry Street Pier resident artist Athena Scott, a thoughtful, mixed-media artist specializing in portraits that will knock your socks off.
Built on the pillar of authenticity, Athena’s intricate and vibrant works encapsulate the essence of her subjects through their life-like gazes. When creative pauses are necessary, music, podcasts, and Pirates Booty cheese puffs provide solace in her solitude.
This is a 3 to 4-minute read. Basically, the length of time it will take you to listen to Already by Beyoncé (recommended listening for this post!).
What’s your favorite piece of art that you didn’t create?
There’s two. Nude Descending a Staircase, No. 2 by Marcel Duchamp and the sculpture by Umberto Boccioni, Unique Forms of Continuity in Space.
What would you consider one of Philadelphia’s best-kept secrets?
It wouldn’t be a secret if I told you. 🤐
The creative/artistic life can often feel isolating. What do you do to counteract that?
I constantly surround myself with sound, be it one of my many playlists or a podcast. I think it comes through in my work in the colors I chose.
If you could have one superpower, what would it be and why?
The power to heal. We all need to in one way or another.
What’s your personal mission or vision?
The most basic answer would be to continue to grow, learn, and be open as an artist and person. I’ll go wherever that leads me.
What was the most memorable response someone has had to your work?
I randomly did a portrait of a friend about a year ago. They didn’t know I was doing it until I posted it on my Instagram (@athena_astraea). They recently messaged me the other day to say they were thinking about that piece and how it made them smile. It made me feel good that something I created could bring someone a moment of happiness.
Is cereal soup? Why or why not?
What a random question. Technically, you could possibly say they are the same thing. The difference would be determined by whether it’s considered a breakfast, lunch, or dinner item.
Name three artists to whom you’d like to be compared. Why?
I don’t know if I want the pressure of being compared to another artist, especially if it’s someone I admire. However, if I could be mentioned in the same sentence or breath as Amy Sherald or Kerry James Marshall that would be pretty awesome. I want to be the best I can be as an artist.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given? What’s the best piece of advice you have given?
The best piece of advice I was given was to be kind and patient with myself.
The best piece of advice I feel I’ve given was to be your most authentic self. Be empathetic, kind, and thoughtful. Listen before responding and pick your battles wisely.
What has been your go-to snack?
I’m obsessed with Pirates Booty white cheddar puffs. I started buying them in bulk from BJ’s; it’s truly a problem.