Pen’s Eye: Interview with That Artista Philece R

Dear Pennies & Pens,

The thing about interviewing new artists is that I get insight into their world. I get to learn more about their creative process and how they view society. I’m so thankful that I was able to discover today’s interviewee Philece R. and feature her work.

Philece’s work explores bold contrasts and rhythmic movement through the female form and vivid color. On her website, Philece states, “I am inspired by the stories of women and nature’s color palette, finding beauty in strength, struggle and triumph, in the little things too often taken for granted.”

I fell in love with Philece’s work because it is just so beautiful! Her pencil works seriously look like photos, the form and shape is perfect. Then there’s her paintings in which she uses bold, bright colors that make the paintings “pop”.

I truly believe that Philece has talent that most don’t have. It’s truly a gift that she’s been blessed with. But enough of my gushing, I present to you Pen’s Eye: Interview with That Artista Philece R.

1. Where are you from?

I am from Nassau, Bahamas.

2. How has your heritage influenced you as an artist?

I am influenced by  human emotion, so the rich history of my heritage, the strength of the people, the beautiful vivid color that an island provides influences my work greatly.

No matter where I am at in this world or how long I am away from home, my heritage flows within and from me when I create.

3. What school did you go to?

I went to the University of Oklahoma and the Art Institute of Atlanta.

4. What inspires you to create art?

Life. The stories of people that I meet. The intricacies of life, nature and culture. The harmony of a song, a sweet line of poetry and of course beauty in all of it’s forms.

Emotions and energy derived from a moment, a series of experiences that I have lived or been told. The list is endless, inspiration is everywhere.

5. What made you decide to become an artist?

Truth is, it wasn’t a decision, it seems I was born this way, art chose me. I have been immersed in the arts from performing to visual my entire life. It is not just something that I do, it is all of me, it is who I am.

I have worked many jobs in various fields and one thing never changed, my heart craves art. Every single fiber within me screams artist and always has. It’s a long standing, never ending love affair between art and I.

6. Tell me more about your creative process as far as how you create your pieces? What tools, programs, or mediums do you use?

I do not allow myself to be restricted by disciplines or medium. I enjoy creating traditionally with pencil and paint on anything from paper to canvas to wood just to name a few.

However, I also create digitally using programs such as Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop and I like to mix things up by combining the old with the new, traditional with digital.

 7. Which piece (that you’ve created) is your favorite? Why?

In 2011, I created a pencil illustration titled “Lola” is one of two that have become my favorites. Shortly after being released from the hospital, the urge to create was so great that I to find a way to do so. So I propped up a makeshift drawing board and through the pain and grogginess of the pain meds, I picked up my pencils and she came to life.

It was a such a profound experience, revealing the true nature of the passion I have for what I do. I am an artist regardless of circumstance and nothing will ever get in the way of that. She will always have a special place in my heart and will forever remind me that I am as strong as I choose to be and that there is always light amidst the dark.

8. What advice would you give to young art artists who are starting to build their portfolios?

Practice and explore, spend time with your art everyday. Create from a place of comfort but also push beyond that comfort zone. Challenge yourself by perfecting your strengths but also showing love to your weaknesses so that they too become strengths. Experiment with different mediums, styles and technique. This is how you find what you like best and to learn new things about yourself and your art.

Let your inspirations be your guide as well as your fellow artists. Let your passion flow from the depths of you, unrestricted and watch yourself evolve. It is a beautiful journey and it doesn’t happen over night. But when you love what you do, the in between becomes a recognized                 opportunity to grow and eventually the art will speak for itself.

 9. Who is your favorite artist and why?

To choose one would be difficult. Gustav Klimt and Frida Kahlo are my favorites and greatest inspirations. Gustav’s beautifully ornate treatment of the female form and emotions and Frida’s raw emotional and heavy influence of her culture are what makes the two of these artists my favorites.

10. Tell me about present and upcoming projects?

I exhibited my first solo show, “Beautiful Warrior” just last month, so of course the next is already brewing in my mind. I will be ending this year with some engaging projects, ongoing client work to finish 2014 just right and I am excited about the growth and beautiful possibilities of the new year ahead.

Love & Light,

Philece R

Be sure to check out Philece’s website here: www.thatartista.com and follow her on Twitter: @thatArtista and Instagram: @thatartista