Artist Spotlight
Today, I was interviewed for a local newspaper and here’s the interview questions:
Personal Questions:
Tell me a little about yourself? (Background, childhood, etc.)
Born in Western PA, near Pittsburgh and yes, I’m a diehard Steelers Fan. My childhood was blessed with the Steelers’ dynasty of the 70’s. I also loved spending time in the beautiful woods, mountains, and forests of Western PA. Thankfully, I had great exposure to the city and Carnegie Museum, where I fistr developed my interest in art.
How did you become interested in art?
Always a fascination, my skills first got recognized by my 5th Grade teacher, Mrs. Catalona, when I began illustrating scenes from the stories she read to our class in her thick, Maine accent.
Do you have any educational background in art?
Yes, I took every Art Class I could in HS, then went to IUP (Indiana University of PA) to study Art and also earn a BS in Art Education. I then went on to Grad School at The University of the Arts, located in downtown Philadelphia. I’ve never stopped learning and taking classes ever since, wherever I could.
What and/or who inspires your creativity?
The human spirit provides great inspiration. I also deeply appreciate beauty, nature, and cultures.
What do you enjoy doing the most?
I love to travel. The US is vast and wonderful and I’ve been all over the country. I’ve visited many countries including Greece, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, France, Scotland, Ireland, Canada, and Mexico. I look forward to traveling once again once COVID 19 subsides.
I also LOVE reading, with the Fantasy and Horror genres being 2 of my favs.
When it comes to Art, choosing a favorite is tough. You see, I love it all. I love getting my hands dirty and the physicality of Sculpture. I also love the mesmerizing element associated with 2D Art such as Painting and illustration. The also fully embrace the Digital Art realm and I look at it as another amazing tool. If I had it to do over again, I would be a Film Maker, an ultimately challenging and far-reaching Art Medium.
What is your favorite painting and sculpture?
Do you mean ‘my fav’s by other artists or pieces I’ve created?
Henri Rousseau, French post-impressionist painter in the Naïve or Primitive manner. “The Snake Charmer”, “Exotic Landscape”, and “The Sleeping Gypsy” are some of my favorite paintings.
Auguste Rodin, a French sculptor, ‘the founder of modern sculpture. The Thinker, The Kiss, & The Gates of Hell are equally incredible.
What is the most rewarding part of being an artist?
Making people happy is perhaps the most rewarding aspect of being an artist. Teaching Art has also yielded incredible results and it’s a joy to help people realize the power of Art and Creation.
What does your art mean to you?
Art is a deeply intrinsic form of human expression, which communicates in a primal, nonverbal manner. Art remain
What is your process for generating new ideas?
New ideas come from everywhere. Traveling broadens one’s perspective and nourishes the soul. Reading and listening to podcasts & Music also offers a wellspring flowing with fundamental building blocks for creativity. Other artists and nature I respect greatly.
Questions about Brett’s Art:
Explain what you do (painting, sculpting, etc.) Include type of painting and material used.
I use anything and everything require to achieve the best possible result. Mixed Media is a great solution.
How would you describe your artistic style?
Hmm, that’s another tough one. As I grow, it seems as though my style continually changes. We’ll have to wait and see ;)
What does your work aim to say?
I want my work to provide a point of refuge, peace, inspiration, defiance, grace, and spirit. I’ve done my job as an artist and a human being if I can provide such divine notions.
Does your work relate to any social issues? If yes how.
Much of my work focuses on popular culture, where I recognize figures who manage to cross social boundaries, sterotypes, and ignorance. I challenge anyone to listen to Biggie Smalls rap and not feel his flow. I miss that cat yet I’m thankful he left us his music.
How do you want your work to impact our community?
It would be great if my work serves as a legit tool to help our community come together and realize that we’re all in this thing together
Final questions:
Advice for aspiring artists in Fayetteville
Take care of ‘Numero Uno’ and the ‘small things’ or you’ll won’t be in a state where you can CREATE. Work, work, rejuvenate, work, sleep, travel (physically and/or virtually), open your eyes, & make decisions for yourself. Lose the shields and be open to sharing with others.
What are your plans and goals for the future?
I want to be able to continue to spread my artistic message via every means necessary. I’m super excited about my website, InvictusArte.com, which launches TODAY. I hope to be able to positively impact peoples’ lives from anywhere, whether I’m working in Fayetteville, the mountains, the beach, a big city, anywhere.
How can people contact you?
My website: www.invictusarte.com
Email: brettking@invictusarte.com
Cell: 410-818-6003
Instagram: invictus_arte
Facebook: Brett King, Fayetteville, NC