Artists of Easton: Marta Whistler

I was lucky enough to run into Marta Whistler walking around town the other day with her beautiful dog:

Me: "You are a contemporary painter/sculptor…"
Her: "Yes, and I am a noted painter/sculptor. People know me around here in Easton; I've worked in Philadelphia and all over the country."
Me: "So, let me ask you: You've been all over the country, and yet Easton…"
Her: "…Easton is my home. I lived here with my late husband. We bought a beautiful Victorian home, which we renovated completely. When he unfortunately passed away two years ago-- he was performing King Lear in California--and he died of a massive heart attack. So, I didn't feel the same about Easton anymore. Too many memories. I went to Dallas where I had family and clients, but the urge to return to Easton was too strong; I'm also a mentor to many young people here, so they said, 'Marta, you'll have to come back--it's just not the same without you here.' I have clients in New York and Philadelphia and so on, so it's easier for them to come to Easton than to Dallas. So I came back, bought a house and I'm very happy. This is home to me."
Me: "One art question: What do artists do for humanity?"
Her: "I think to convey a certain message in their work. That's the most important thing. See, I don't title my work because I like to prod your mind and see what you are going to see into it."

You can see Marta's work locally at the Sigal Museum and the Nurture Nature Center.

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