Technique and Style
Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started in art?
I’ve always been interested in art. I remember during summer camp one year one of the councilors told my mom that she felt I had talent and skill in art and hopes that it’ll be something that I can pursue. I entered my first “art contest” in 3rd grade and represented my school in a larger citywide show. Then things sorta flatlined in art as I was involved with other activities with sports being one of them.
Did you have any formal training, or are you self-taught?
My studies in art have been a mix of formal education and self taught. I have a Bachelor degree in Visual Communication (fancy way of saying graphic design). Studied fine arts at Herron School of Art as well as international art classes while living in Europe.
Can you walk us through your creative process? How do you go from an idea to a finished piece?
My creative process is similar to me designing. I tend to get an idea, which can come from any type of inspiration. And like a designer I’ll create multiple iterations, like comps in graphic design, that transfer into a series. Some are only 3 paintings, some are up to 80. And sometimes the series will morph. I started a series with watercolors and now pieces of that series are being done in acrylics. Always gotta be flexible in the creative process.
What mediums do you prefer to work with, and why?
Mostly the 2D mediums, watercolors, oils, acrylics. Graphite, charcoal, etc. it’s about having a level of proficiency that one can use the medium that best expresses the idea.
Do you have any rituals or routines that help you get into the creative flow?
Not really but I do prefer to draw in silence and paint with music.
How do you know when a piece is finished?
It will tell you when it’s completed. It’s never finished because as each person views it the work will take on another layer of life.
Where do you draw inspiration from for your work?
Nature, other works of art be it a painting, a musical composition, a dance piece or a work of poetry. And sometimes the dark part of humanity can serve as a catalyst for a work of art.
Are there recurring themes or messages in your art?
Well there is a theme to a series but not necessarily to my full body of work. Though someone may see a reoccurring message but if anything I’ll say I try to be more positive with my work. However that looks.
How do you stay inspired and motivated to create new art?
By traveling and experiencing life. I’m not really the type to disappear into my studio for weeks. I’ll work on pieces but I enjoy living life, new experiences meeting people great conversations. These are inspiring and keeps both creativity and curiosity going.
Have you faced any major setbacks in your career? How did you overcome them?
A few, 9-11 was the first. After that there was not much interest in the arts as most were reeling and just trying to survive. I was doing more graphic design work and I had major clients that went out of business which of course led to a lack of business for me. It was then that I made the decision to play the long game. It took roughly 17 years to get back fully into the arts. A more recent setback would be the back to back hurricanes of Helene and Milton. My studio flooded. Lost a large amount of supplies and equipment and over 50 paintings with water damage, damaged film negatives and prints, damaged and/or destroyed works on paper. But the studio is back together. Rebuilding and replacing supplies and equipment. And slowly re-streaching, cleaning and salvaging what I can. It’ll take time but its worth the journey.
How do you market and sell your artwork?
Through my website and participating in shows both solo and group. Locally and internationally.
What role does social media play in your art career?
Well I’m really trying to become more savvy with Social Media. It definitely has a place in the art ecosystem.
What advice would you give to aspiring artists trying to make a name for themselves?
Stay curious, practice and learn basics of business.
If you could collaborate with any artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?
Interesting, I mostly prefer collaborating with artist of a different discipline, writers, dancers and musicians. To me that is more exciting.
Can you share any tips or techniques that have significantly improved your art?
Color theory
What has been your most memorable exhibition experience?
My very first solo show I put on in my first studio. It was in the Stutz building in Indianapolis. Great show, well received. Nice write ups. It was when I first felt like a true artist. People really responded to my work and it was then that I felt deep down that I was on to something, that I could do this.
What’s next for you in your artistic journey? Any upcoming projects or exhibitions?
Well I’m still in recovery mode but as I’ve been working through I’ve been getting inspirations on incorporating the damaged items into new works so we’ll see how it all pans out. •
https://blaquejackstudios.com
