Art Goes Digital: Storytelling Artist Cindy Mohr

Mar 31, 2025 02:30PM ● By Suzie Agrillo

Me and My Birds by Cindy Mohr & Artist Cindy Mohr

Cindy Mohr is a sophisticated yet quirky visual artist, captivating us with her playful, colorful and innovative creations from her studio in Patagonia, Arizona. A savvy digital artist, Mohr is quick to credit her treasured iPad for the new creative paths she’s exploring. However, it’s her artistic vision—not her tools—that truly fuels her talent.

Beyond her prowess as a visual artist, Mohr has long been drawn to the world of music. From an early age, she studied a variety of musical instruments, and that passion never waned. Today, her musical expression is driven by the drums, which take center stage in her performances with her bandmates.

Mohr’s formal artistic credentials include a BFA from the Herron School of Art at Indiana University, awarded in 1989, and an MFA in printmaking from the Tyler School of Art at Temple University in 1992.

Her artwork often takes the form of personal narratives, saturated with bold colors and expressive gestures—each piece a vivid page from her irrepressible life. With a wildly free and bewitching style, Mohr effortlessly draws us into her world of art and music.

Q&A With Digital Artist Cindy Mohr

How would you describe yourself in 10 words or less?

Musician, artist, passionate, resilient, dedicated, motivated, hum-orous, serious, androgynous, female.

How did you get interested in art?

I always enjoyed art as a child. While growing up, my mother returned to college for an MA in art. She had a studio set up and I loved watching her paint. Also, I loved getting a “sick day” from school to join her at the art school.

What do you enjoy about working as a digital artist?

It’s so similar to printmaking (my major in college) in terms of layering abilities, flat color fills, and outlining. I adore that I can make multiple prints and varieties of an image. And I don’t need to purchase art supplies or store canvases, etc. Nor must I inhale toxic chemicals. I can work anywhere, anytime, quickly and with ease.

Where do the ideas for your art come from?

Some ideas come from my unconscious. Others are depictions of life’s daily activities. Some are memories. Some are expressions of emotions.

How does your art depict daily activity and what does this mean to you?

The act of making art is soothing to my soul. I wake up in the wee hours and think, what do I need to do today…or thinking about what happened yesterday; so, these scenes come to life in drawings. I’m able to process and release emotions, and share with viewers what strikes me as interesting, funny and/or poignant. Sometimes the depictions are made up, attempting to, or subconsciously expressing feelings, such as the woman in a sinking boat.

I’m always pleased when the viewer creates their own interpretation, as the experiences and images are relatable. I also quite enjoy when they appreciate the humor often woven in, which usually happens unintentionally, due to the quirky style of drawing.

What colors are you drawn to?

I like bold colors. I’m not one for pastels. At age 10, purple was my favorite color. Now? I’d say brilliant red, the color of my parrot’s tail, and any shade of blue.

Who are your favorite artists?

I’ve been influenced by many. I loved perusing Edward Hopper and Van Gogh books as a child. In art school I was exposed to, and admired so many artists that I can’t begin to name them all. Gustave Klimt, Egon Schiele and Maxx Beckman are a few of the classics. Also, Andy Warhol and too many other contemporary artists to list.

Where can people buy your art?

ArtByCindyMohr.com.

What life experiences led you to become a musician?

I was lucky my parents promoted private lessons, and that there was music in school. I learned piano, snare drum and cello at an early age. While in art school I played guitar. I yearned for a drum kit, which I procured with student loan money while in grad school, along with microphones and an effects unit. With a borrowed PA system, I set up a weekly open music jam. All were welcome, and it was strictly improv. It was deeply satisfying and exhilarating to play with others.

I was passionate about listening to music as well. My older sister studied and excelled at music. I would lay under the piano for hours while she practiced complicated pieces and always had a Walkman with earphones and an active stereo at home.

Life experience? There was tragedy at home, as my dad succumbed to his depression and took his life. My older brother and sister had already moved out. I was alone and lonely, and I especially found solace in music, both playing in the orchestra and listening to my stereo at home. Music has always been a necessity in my life.

When did you start performing as a drummer in a band?

I actually only began that within the past three years. After college I sold my kit and didn’t play much for a few decades. Fast forward seven years, a friend of mine and I started a local drum circle. Eventually I would bring more and more drums, strapping a tambourine cowbell and bongos to milk crates. I brought a borrowed snare and a tom drum.

One day I had a revelation. “I need a high hat with cymbals. Duh! I need a drum kit!” I procured one and quickly learned how to play real songs via YouTube. Within six months, I was playing in a band. Since then, I’ve played and performed with five bands, approximately 75 performances.

What is the last thing you do before you go onstage?

I’m usually very busy tending to last minute details. Visually I like the band to look good. I bring the lights, the rugs, the bling, and I scurry to get it all together! I do, however, arrive a good two hours early, so I can set up, then relax a few moments to clear my mind and to stretch my body.

What do you do when you’re not making art or music?

I make and sell leather goods on Etsy. I spend a lot of time caring for and being entertained by my pets: an African grey parrot, a dove and a Manx cat. I also tend to a home and property in a canyon in Patagonia.

What is the best book you’ve read?

A Confederacy of Dunces, by John Kennedy Toole, is the first one that comes to mind.

What piece of advice have you been given that guides you?
My friend Paula Wittner, an accomplished painter, once said to me, [why not] “Reach for the stars.” This has changed everything for me. I’m able to identify what I ideally want to happen in any given situation, without doubts or worries about how, and I strive toward the ideal.

Taking care of your parents in their old age is a privilege not everyone gets to experience. What can you share about caring for your mom?

She had Parkinson’s disease, and I took care of her for 13 years. It was precious to spend time as an adult with my mom, and an honor to care for her. I certainly have zero regrets. I will say that I was focused on her needs and didn’t pursue much for myself. Now I’m making up for that.

Is there anything else that you’d like our readers to know?

Yes. I consider myself a “late bloomer.” I was so proud when I turned 60, since I definitely have a new perspective on life. It’s precious and goes by quickly. Don’t sweat the small stuff. Don’t worry about what others think. Don’t judge others. Listen to your instinct and do the right thing when presented with a dilemma. Follow your passions. Be brave, have confidence. Keep on keepin’ on.

I’d love to hang an art show at your place of business. Please contact me via my website. Thank you!

Connect with Cindy at [email protected] or ArtByCindyMohr.com.

Suzie Agrillo is a freelance writer in Tucson, and a frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings magazine. She focuses on writing about the arts, inspirational people, and the human connection. Connect at [email protected].

Cindy Mohr [10 Images] Click Any Image To Expand