Today we continue with our interview series. This time we’re happy to present to you Christopher.
Christopher was born in a small town in North East Texas but he spent his adult years in the Dallas/Ft Worth area. Christopher’s father was also an artist who mainly painted landscapes and he was a big reason for Christopher’s initial interest in art.
He won his first art competition when he was just five years old and continued his fascination through high school and into young adulthood.
Christopher joined several art groups and started a small art-based pet portrait company, however, this never really took off as life began to get in the way.
In his own words: “I got married and had children which all required money and thus my art took a back seat. It wasn’t until about two years ago (20 years later) that I began to realize that if I didn’t pursue my dreams now then I never would. My father passed away suddenly and this left me with even more conviction. Since then I have been pushing to create my own style and make a mark in the art world. “
What made you want to become a painter?
Christopher: I would say my father was the biggest reason I became interested in art. He was an oil painter and loved landscape paintings. He made one for me and my brother when we were born. I remember looking at them when I was small and thinking maybe one day, I could create something like that. So, that was where it began.
What inspires you?
Christopher: Well, that answer has changed over the years as my work has changed. I initially wanted to follow in my father’s footsteps as a landscape artist and many of my early paintings were in that genre. I still love landscapes and sneak one in here and there, but I also love animals and so my work went that direction for a while when I was younger. Now however I am inspired by the beauty and complexity of our microbiology and our universe and how they are so alike one another yet so vastly different in size. The beauty of a tiny cell in our body and an enormous galaxy in our universe inspires me.
How would you define your visual style?
Christopher: Bold color pallet and striking visuals I suppose. I want the viewer to immediately be drawn to the work and take their time with it. As I say “I want them to get lost in the painting and take their time finding their way back”. A lot of my work is abstract but has enough elements of non-abstraction to give the viewer pause. I also name every work to try and give the painting a meaning if you will. This can help guide anyone looking at the piece.
Do you do anything in particular to seal your art?
Christopher: My work is mainly mixed media. If by chance I create a work that is mostly acrylic paint I would seal it with varnish at the end. Usually, I am working with a combination of acrylic and oil paints as well as pigments and inks all together on the same work. These are then all mixed with an epoxy resin which in itself seals the painting together.
Can you take us through a little of your typical day?
Christopher: I am a night owl. I always have been. So, during the day is when I work on ideas for new works, work on social media posts and manage the business side of my art. During the evening and night is when most of my studio time takes place. I always think better and can focus more at night for some reason. Of course, mixed in with all that is all the other things we have to deal with everyday such as kids and family time.
What’s happening now at your studio? What new projects are on the horizon?
Christopher: I am really focusing in the idea of the microscopic parts of our body and how they are so much like things found in nature and our universe. I have multiple projects going in the studio the reflect this idea. I’m hoping to get these introduced via a gallery during the second half of the year.
What has been your most favorite project so far and why?
Christopher: I did a painting a couple of years ago that was a little out of the realm of what I usually do. It was a retro eighty’s piece that I did mainly using spray paint and resin. I felt it turned out great and knew my dad would really like it. So, I gave it to him as a Christmas gift. Every time I saw him, he would comment on how much he loved it. I didn’t know it at the time but that piece would be the last gift I would give him, as he passed away unexpectedly a little over a year later. It holds a very special place in my heart.
What’s your personal motto or a quote that you like or live by?
Christopher: Keep moving forward. Each day take another step or two or more towards your goals in life. Nothing good comes from standing still. It means you are stuck in a rut and the longer you stop moving the harder it will be to get going again.
Do you have any words of wisdom to share with new artists?
Christopher: Don’t wait to pursue your dreams and never give up. Being an artist isn’t easy. It’s going to test your patience and your will. You’ll have days where things aren’t going as planned and you’ll question if art is even the right path for you. Don’t listen to your mind. Keep moving forward. Set goals and strive each day to reach those goals. It may take time but YOU WILL SUCCEED! The only way you won’t is if you stop moving.
How can people follow your news?
Christopher: The best way to keep up with my upcoming works and events is to sign up for my mailing list. I send out periodic emails along with specials for those in the list. – linktr.ee/dreamvision_designs or visit my website www.dreamvisiondesigns.com