This is the beginning of a new series that I’m starting highlight artists, their practice, their path , and everything in between. I truly believe that at the heart of every creative person there is an amazing well-spring of information, insight, and perspective that we can all learn things from! I also believe that creativity is something inherent in us all and that any one can be an artist or can live your life as a creative person. I hope these interview series will give a deeper glimpse into the vastness of our inner worlds and how each of us have something beautiful and worthwhile to share.
‘Orchestra Noir’ oil on panel
OUTLAW. ANTIQUATED ASSHOLE. DISRUPTING FINE ART.
Full disclosure: Paul and I are partners and I love him-BUT-even if he didn’t have access to my toothbrush, I would still say that he is one of my favorite artists. He consistently pushes the limits of his own vision, his mind, and his heart. Ever learning, ever stretching, and fully allowing the discomfort in growth. He’s the first in this series as he was patient enough to answer all of the questions I have and I know that you will be able to gather some amazing insights from his unique perspectives! Read on and feel free to ask any questions you may have below!
What is the energy/driving force behind your work?
This is a complex question; to put it as simply as possibly can: a creative reflecollection and consistent celebration for my zeal for life.
What drew you to your particular medium?
As a multi-disciplinary artist I would say fascination with form is what drives me towards exploring most mediums that I find interesting; so whatever best describes form in all its glory.
What’s your view on ‘failure’ vs. ‘success’ when it comes to a completed piece?
Success is any piece that gets accomplished and failure isn’t failure. Failure was a successful endeavor into gathering data, and the artist successfully chooses to abandon a project once the data necessary has been obtained.
Do you have any rituals or routines that you do to get yourself into the creative zone?
I do! Primarily showering/changing clothes. Sometimes smoking or lighting palo santo, intermittent dance breaks, and enjoying silence and solitude. These things allow me to enter and maintain an active meditative state crucial to completing my work.
What is your opinion or view on the concept of creative genius?
It is very much a real thing. Genius, however, isn’t something that is obtainable such as purchasing an object and keeping it on your desk for later use. Genius, from my perspective, is a constant work it’s a state of mind reachable by all as a birthright. Some have take the time to do the spiritual work that allows your intelligence to interact in this space and others haven’t.
What would you tell someone who doesn’t believe they are creative/can be an artist?
I would tell them that they aren’t an artist-if that’s how they feel. I would tell them they can completely be an artist as soon as they decide to feel like one. The issue lays in allowing yourself to live as an artist-emotionally, spiritually, financially, and intellectually.
Could you describe the process of what it looks like to develop your unique style and voice?
Regardless of aesthetic choices in rendering a piece of art, I truly believe it comes down to someones ability to totally be preset in their work and subsequently developing their own idiosyncratic language visually, intellectually, and emotionally. The process is difficult to describe but as best as I can-it’s the willingness to seek out and foster the you-est of you against all odds in this life.
‘Subrosa’ oil on wood round
Do you have a spiritual practice/view on the universe/belief in a larger power? What does that look like?
I most definitely believe in a higher power. I was raised Catholic but don’t fully identify as that nor do I truly practice in a fashion that would put me in a similar place as practicing Catholics. I primarily hold the view in a vein similar to the Native American view being that literally EVERYTHING is the Great Spirit.
Do you feel your spiritual view informs your art practice?
Absolutely! Art is the reverberation of the great conversation with self and the Universe.
What do you feel have been essential elements in the cultivation of your spiritual growth?
I would say recognizing myself in places I had no intention of being in. Poor mental states. Neglect. Radical honesty has been the greatest catalyst to any spiritual growth. Psychedelics as a most potent tool. Eventually recognizing myself as the teacher and the student.
What would you tell someone just starting out on their artistic journey?
That art is everything and nothing with a twist. You get out of it what you put into it and it’s a long arduous journey of trial and error but one of the most AMAZING practices that one can take up. Certainly not for everyone but for those who are willing to weather the storms, it’s always a life well lived.
How do you make time for your art practice? What would you tell someone when they say they ‘don’t have time to create’?
I make time because it’s my hyper-focused top priority. It’s the DEFAULT TAB of my brain’s currency system. There is no other choice! If someone were to say that they don’t have time to create then I would tell them: you will never have time for art. Life is a long lesson of humility and with the correct attitude one can accomplish anything. It’s a matter of making those adjustments regardless of how obtuse or acute.
Non art: favorite things, interests, hobbies?
I love being of service/being helpful in any way that I can. Weightlifting, bike riding, archery, cannabis, scotch/whiskey/bourbon, nice clothing, and opulence.
‘Triple Black Diamond’ charcoal and pencil on paper
I hope you made it to the end! Please check out more of Paul’s work here! I have truly only shown you a baby sample of his work and how awesome it is! I thank him for his patience in answering these questions (this was only part of what he answered)! If you have any questions for Paul about his work or anything else-feel free to ask below! I will be sure to pass the questions along to him! And if there are any artists that you are interested in getting to know a bit better; please leave me some suggestions on who you would love to learn more about!