Q&A with Local Artist, Curtis Phillips

Local artist, Curtis Phillips is shares his journey to becoming a recognized artist as well as how he stays inspired! We love chatting with the artists that make up Affordable Art of Charleston! Read the interview below to learn more!

Tell us about yourself:

I was born in Columbia, South Carolina where my artistic endeavors began. I had shown an interest in Art at an early age and it's only grown over the decades. I received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of South Carolina. I learned the art of printmaking from Professor Boyd Saunders. After college, I took portrait lessons from Ted Gorka, a nationally renowned portrait painter known for the portrayal of the Mormon Church.

I then chose to move to Los Angeles to further my career. After one year, I felt disconnected with L.A. and decided to move back to my home state, South Carolina and taught art at a public school. I later moved to New York City to further my endeavor and to challenge and perfect my skills. I stayed and trained in New York for seven months. I learned more in my stay in New York City than at any other time in my career. That experience had a profound impact on my work.

I currently reside in Charleston, South Carolina. A classical realist working in oil, watercolor, gouache, and pencil. Poetry is written for specific works. The visual or literary arts are analogous. Poems are signed, dated and titled and accompany that work of art. My artwork can be found in public and private collections throughout the United States.

I'm the CEO of ccphillipsart.com where anyone can view my Art. There you'll find paintings, works on paper, and drawings.

What was the initial idea that led to starting your business?

I've been an Artist my entire life so it was natural to want to do this for a living. Being an Artist and making a living are two different things altogether.

What is the biggest challenge of owning your business?

The biggest challenge is working hard and promoting yourself as an Artist. This is especially true when the economy goes into a recession and flattens everyone. There are a lot of Artists out there and to stay ahead I've learned to be persistent. Persistence is your greatest ally on your path to your successes; without it you can not find success!!

What is the biggest reward of owning your business?

The best reward for owning my own business is working for myself but that also brings many obstacles everyday such as discipline when there's no one there to stay after you. It's up to me to have to do everything involved from creating the Art to the business side and everything in between.

What inspires you?

My inspiration comes in many forms from nature, animals, colors, shadows, people. Lately it's been mostly Nature. 

How do you manage it all?

I manage to keep sane by laughing everyday. I have a warped sense of humor at times and working out for over 40 years has also benefited me. 

Who are your favorite artists?

My favorite artists are Jan Van Eyck, Rembrandt, Monet, Sargent, and Picasso. 

How would you describe your aesthetic?

My Art is completely devoid of any representation. You'll always find someone saying they see something in there but that's what's so great about Art is it's maybe the most subjective subject there is although I think everything is subjective. There are too many factors that go into one's perception of great Art and bad Art or religion, politics etc. 

What is your least favorite art/design trend?

Abstract Art has been my favorite trend since college. 

What is the best tip you can give when it comes to designing a space?

The Minimalist movement got boring too quickly. A few seconds and the surprise is over. 

What do you love about working in the Charleston community?

Charleston's history, how the city is designed and beaches. It's got so many great things going for it we've been here a long time. The only time it's not fun is when a Hurricane is headed our way LOL!! 

Why do you find working with a personal framer to be beneficial?

Carol is always trying new things at Affordable Art of Charleston so there's something for everyone there. She's easy to work with too. 

Any new exciting projects coming up?

You get to know those framer(s) and they know what you like and expect so there's less confusion and everyone's happy at the results.