Today we’d like to introduce you to Cynthia Warden.
Hi Cynthia, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
As a part of the art community, I find myself among creators who are not just mere painters but passionate chroniclers of our times. The canvas serves as a mirror reflecting the turbulent waters of our world. For the past five years, I’ve embarked on an extraordinary journey, capturing the essence of the political, social, economic, and pop culture events through my ongoing art series and books.
Known as “The Real-Time Artist,” this artistic journey began in January 2020 and today stands as a testament to the power of creativity and observation. The ongoing art series is a collection of large original oil paintings that reflect the zeitgeist of our era. With 86 sequential paintings to date, the series chronicles four years of current events, making history come alive on canvas. It has been said, “Every journey begins with one small step,” and when painting the first in this series in January 2020, I had no idea it would lead me on this incredible journey. The political climate was charged as “Russia Collusion,” and the Mueller investigation was heating up. because there had not been an impeachment since Bill Clinton, I decided to do a triptych and paint the “Accusations,” “Senate Impeachment Trial,” and the ”Outcome,” whatever it might be. But as fate would have it, we were locked down in March 2020 due to the COVID Pandemic. I decided then to continue and paint us through this unique and troubling time.
“The News of Today is the History of Tomorrow” is a philosophy that underscores my understanding of the world. As a former publicist my artistic vision serves as a powerful reminder of the significant events and issues that shape our global landscape. Whether you’re a politically astute, a current events enthusiast, or someone seeking a deeper understanding of our world, these paintings provide a platform for dialogue, transcending political boundaries. This series is designed to be a snapshot in time, an archive to document our world and the important events. Throughout history, there have been those who sought to document history through art and words. One of my favorite examples is King Alfred, in 899, enlisted his artists and scribes to document his battles with the Danes to unite England.
Every two weeks, without fail, I dip into the colors of current events and paint the news with detailed strokes. This work invites you to witness history unfolding in real time, inviting introspection, dialogue, and sometimes even controversy.
My unique perspective, portrayed in paintings such as “Pandemic,” “Cancel Culture,” “America Divided,” and “America in Peril,” approaches complex issues with a thought-provoking and occasionally humorous touch. Recently, I was the only political artist featured in the “Anything Goes” Exhibition at the California Heritage Museum with my diptych titled “Divided We Stand.”
In addition to the art series, I have written four books, each offering an intimate insight into my way of processing the news of that period. The release of Volume Four, “Tipping Point in America and the World,” 2023, launched in January 2024, is the latest addition to my body of work. I look forward to 2024 to continue this ongoing series and will paint in real-time through the Presidential Election and the Inauguration in January 2025 with Volume Five. https://shop.therealtimeartist.com/shop-products
In committing to documenting current events through art illustrates an appreciation of history’s role in shaping our future. The unique ability to capture real-time events through the lens of an artist provides a thought-provoking perspective on the challenges and opportunities we face in our ever-evolving world. This series aims to challenge viewers to think about the World around them and to engage with complex ideas in a visual and accessible way.
I believe what sets me apart is not just my publicist’s eye for detail and working with news outlets but a dedication to overcoming obstacles and ensuring my voice is heard. In a world where artists often find it hard to break into the art community and shy away from controversy, I believe art serves as a way to confront contentious issues, challenge societal norms, sparking important conversations. This series serves as a testament to the power of art as a tool for shedding light on pressing issues, from political upheavals to social injustices, from the rise of technology to the ever-evolving landscape of pop culture. Through art, the artist invites you to confront uncomfortable truths, to question the status quo, and to imagine a better, more equitable future.
But this journey has not been without its challenges and obstacles. Like any artist committed to authenticity, I have faced delays, skepticism, and even censorship. I refuse to be silenced, using the challenges as fuel to drive me forward.
During this time, I was dealing with the horrible news of my mother’s battle with dementia. I found myself struggling through a whirlwind of emotions. The long goodbye had begun, and as I cared for her, I realized the day would come when caring for her would have to be done by professionals. In the middle of this heartache and undeniable truth, I turned to the canvas, dedicating myself to this series with unwavering determination. Painting every two weeks became a safe place, a sanctuary where I could forget for the time the feelings of helplessness and sadness as I watched my mother slowly disappear. Each brushstroke was a silent plea for peace in the face of my mother’s fading memories. As I immersed myself in the act of creation, I discovered a sense of purpose and clarity that eluded me elsewhere. And when my mother passed away, the art became not only a source of comfort but also a tribute to her enduring belief in my art and her love for me. Through this series, I found a way to navigate the sadness and grief, transforming pain into beauty and loss into remembrance.
Through this artwork, my hope is that we are reminded of the transformative potential of art. In a world that often feels divided, my work serves as a bridge, connecting people across cultures, ideologies, and backgrounds. Art reminds us of our shared humanity, our interconnections, and our collective responsibility to shape the world we inhabit.
In an era defined by uncertainty and upheaval, I stand for hope, an artist whose commitment to my craft serves as an inspiration to us all as I continue this artistic journey, painting us through history and through this important election year.
Especially important is the artistic contribution in this election year, where political art takes on a heightened significance. Through more than 86 paintings in the collection so far, they offer a view of the history of our nation and the world. Each brush stroke tells a story and captures the essence of pivotal moments, reflecting the struggles, triumphs, and complexities of our times. I hope you will join me in embracing the transformative power of art to create a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
For me, political art is not merely a creative outlet; it is a heartfelt responsibility—a duty to bear witness to the triumphs and tribulations of humanity, to preserve the collective memory, and to chart a course toward a more just and equitable future. For me, art becomes a bridge spanning the space between the past, the present, and the yet-unwritten chapters of tomorrow—a testament to the enduring power of creativity to shape hearts, minds, and societies.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am currently finishing the two paintings documenting the events of March 2024. I will be painting through to the end of the year every two weeks culminating with the Presidential Inauguration 2025. I am also exploring opportunities for upcoming exhibitions and shows, publishing and investors to support this ongoing project to bring it to fruition. If you or someone you know is interested in supporting this project feel free to contact me through email or social media.
Pricing:
- Soft Cover books $29.00
- 4 Book Bundle Soft Cover $99.00
- Hard Cover Books $125.00
- Prints pricing on website
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.therealtimeartist.com
- Instagram: @cynthiawarden
- Facebook: @cynthiawardenart
- Twitter: @cynthiawarden55
Image Credits
Cynthia Warden
