Today we’re joined by Mallen Krueger. Mallen is a wonderful visual artist and crafter. He does a lot of painting, both canvases and more frequently, wooden eggs. When he’s not painting, Mallen does a lot of beadwork. While not religious, he mostly makes rosaries and prayer beads. It’s clear he’s a talented and passionate artist, as you’ll soon read. My thanks to him for taking the time to participate in this interview.
WORK
Please, tell us about your art.
I do paint on canvases, but most of my art is on wooden eggs. They are mostly simple designs, and splatter. I love the shape and versatility of eggs, so they are my favorite thing to paint.
I also do bead work. Most of my bead work is rosaries and prayer beads. I’m not Catholic or religious myself, but I like the symbolism. It started as a therapy hobby, but I turned it into a small jobby.
What inspires you?
Almost everything! I see so much beauty in the world, and if I can, I try to add that inspiration to what I love.
When it comes to beading, I am mostly inspired by Catholicism. Big cathedrals, beautiful statues, and so much art! But when it comes to non-Christian prayer beads, like pagan prayer beads, I get inspired by nature. I still need to branch out more with those though.
What got you interested in your field? Have you always wanted to be an artist?
I have been an artist since I was a child. My mom is also and artist and she encouraged me right from the start. Art has always been therapeutic for me. It has helped me through some rough times, and painting always makes me happy. I’m sure I’ll always be an artist!
Do you have any kind of special or unique signature, symbol, or feature you include in your work that you’d be willing to reveal?
Besides eggs, I have a bind rune of my initials I put on my art. It’s a signature, but also keeps me connected to my pagan roots.
What advice would you give young aspiring artists?
Keep at it! No matter how tough trying a new styles of art is, or anything in life really, just keep going and eventually you and your art will get better.
ASEXUALITY
Where on the spectrum do you identify?
I am panromantic (lithromantic) asexual.
Have you encountered any kind of ace prejudice or ignorance in your field? If so, how do you handle it?
I’m not quite sure if anyone knows or cares. I don’t really talk about being ace, to other artists, unless the discussion is brought up. So far nothing bad has been said.
When it comes to rosary making, I think being a lifelong virgin would be a plus. LOL
What’s the most common misconception about asexuality that you’ve encountered?
That we don’t have emotions or that we can’t love. I’m not a great example, but I will argue for my ace people when acephobia comes up.
What advice would you give to any asexual individuals out there who might be struggling with their orientation?
Keep searching! There are so many types and terms of asexuality that if you’re struggling with “is this really who I am” then maybe you need to look around for a more fitting term. Being asexual isn’t a bad thing! You can do as much as the next person, and maybe even more!
Finally, where can people find out more about your work?
I have two Facebook pages for my paintings and my rosaries.
https://www.facebook.com/MallensManageables/
https://www.facebook.com/PrairiePasqueRosaries/
To be honest, I would love to ship my items out, but at the moment it’s been difficult for me. Someday I’ll figure it out.
Thank you, Mallen, for participating in this interview and this project. It’s very much appreciated.
Asexual Artists 