There's no rushing this Englewood artist

ENGLEWOOD — When it comes to art, Rita Schwab prefers to take her time.

“I am not into quick art — I like the traditional techniques,” she said. “(My) favorite is fresco as it’s process oriented.

“Fresco is a plaster-based high texture substance of which I have a recipe and make my own. It requires several different steps to achieve plasticity, texture, design and finish.”

Lately. however, Schwab has mostly painted with acrylics because she has been teaching Abstract Painting.

Born and raised in Heidelberg, Germany, the Englewood resident has lived in the area for 14 years. She moved here from upstate New York (Woodstock).

Schwab has taught art, including at Florida State University, since 1990. She’s taught at many different art centers around the country.

Locally, she’s taught at The Open Studio, The Arts Alliance of Lemon Bay, North Port Art Center and the Englewood Art Center. She is looking forward to teaching next season at the Venice Art Center.

Schwab shared how she became interested and what inspires her. This Q & A has been edited for clarity.

How did you get involved in creating art?

My aunt in Germany used to draw and paint with me when I was 5. I painted all throughout my teenage years and decided to study fine art once I came to the U.S.

Where do you get your ideas for the art you create?

Primarily nature and my own inner spirit.

Why art and not some other craft or hobby? Any other passions?

I love music and play the piano. I used to be very good when I was young — almost studied music. I like to drum and join the drum circles. I also play the baritone recorder.

I love to garden and spend way too much time in my gardens here in Englewood. They are my inspiration and that’s where my soul lies.

What are your favorite things to work with? Explain.

I love birds, their freedom, their songs.

I am into spiritual pursuits, practice yoga, QiGong and have been a meditator for a long time.

What do your customers like to buy? Explain.

I specialize in larger works as they are more difficult to find for big walls. A favorite size is 24 inches x 48 inches, and used as a triptych, can create a beautiful backdrop that is 4 feet x 6 feet and is easier to transport than a large canvas. That is a practicality that customers like as well. My customers love my textured work that incorporates glass and sand and rocks and shells and other natural elements.

What about living in Southwest Florida inspires your art?

The beach, the palm trees, outdoor living.

Are there any galleries or art centers that have helped you on your journey?

I have been in many galleries. Locally I am represented by the Arts Alliance of Lemon Bay and by the Green Artist on Dearborn Street.

I have had galleries in New York, Miami and Key West that were major connections.

These days I work more local as I am getting older and don’t travel anymore the way I used to.

I like working with art centers and still travel to quite a few outdoor art shows that are connected with nonprofit organizations that support the arts and the artists.

The art world is shifting to online shows and representation which I am not too fond of. However, I am represented in quite a few online galleries.

Writing is essential to calming my stress. What impact does your art have on your state of mind?

Likewise — art is my muse, my relaxation, my excitement, my meditation, my lifeline.

Is there a style of art you’d like to try that has thus far eluded you? Please explain.

Difficult to answer. I love sculpture, have done a few but would have loved to create large artistic objects in metal … next lifetime.