Today we’d like to introduce you to William Toliver.
William, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I am a self-taught contemporary artist currently living in Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Always having an interest in art as a young child, it was not until 2012 that I began to work on my craft. At the time I had recently quit my job and was just looking for something to do during my free time.
I decided to take a basic painting class at Richland community college just to pass the time until I heard back from graduate school. It wasn’t until graduate school that I began to hone my skills. Art literally became an outlet for me while going through school. It was the one part of the day where I felt like I could just be myself and express my thoughts. For a long time, I didn’t want to show my work to anyone, because it felt so personal. It wasn’t until one of my close friends convinced me in 3015 to put some of my work in a RAW artist showcase. You know, just to test the waters, and I have not looked back since. In the past four years, I have been part of countless art shows and exhibitions. People from all over have bought some of my work. I think that is the coolest part. To think that there are people from so many walks of life that appreciate and love my work enough to have it in there home.
I primarily work with acrylics and graphite, although over the years I have expanded my repertoire to include watercolor, ink, and spray paint. With these mediums, I try to depict my own take on timeless subject matter featuring vivid colors and intricate details that create one of a kind masterpieces. I contribute much of my inspiration to finding beauty in the simplicity of life, and the moments caught between camera flashes along with the artistic inspirations of Sandra Chevrier, Peter Terrin, Kehinde Wiley, Roy Lichtenstein, Salvador Dali, and Andy Warhol.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I don’t believe anyone’s journey is really smooth. You have your ups and downs. Moments where you doubt yourself and your craft because you’re trying to compare yourself to others at a show or even on social media. I remember there was a point about a year ago where I was just creating “mass production” art as I call it. Basically, I was trying to create original pieces that were similar to ones you could buy at your local target. Sure they looked cool, but I didn’t get any fulfillment for creating things just for the masses. So I’ve been on a journey of rediscovery, and I feel like I’m feeling finding my niche in the art world.
We’d love to hear more about your art.
Well, my business is still growing. I’ve taken some major risks this year with the products and pieces that I’m producing. I’m really trying to hone in on what I feel like represents me and my ideals the most. What inspires etc. I’m excited about this new series I’m working on as well as some cool new exclusive items that I will share about in 202o. I believe my work connects to people. Not just on a surface level. My goal is to create art that makes you think and feel. art that you can look at and pull something new from each time you see it. I want to create pieces that speak to your very being, as I’m putting a part of my being into each piece of work.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My family and friends have been the biggest support system. My mom in particular. The input she gives and involvement in my craft has really pushed me. She has been the rock for me for so long with the endeavor. We have a joke that I went to school all this time for biology/medicine and spent all this money just to fall in love with art. I really could never thank her enough for all that she does to help me achieve my goals.
I honestly can’t wait for the day when I can take her to a reception at a big museum with my work on it. Without her, I don’t think I would have had the determination/motivation to keep going with these. there are times where she has pulled me out of my own mind and gave me that push I need to just take one more step. Even if it was just a small one. Just always keep pushing forward. Never doubting me or my work. Just being so genuine and loving. I could on and on about how much of an inspiration she has been, but I don’t think I could say enough lol. Love you Mom.
Contact Info:
- Website: whtart.net
- Email: wh.toliver@gmail.com
- Instagram: williamtoliverart
Suggest a story: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
