Today we’d like to introduce you to Adam Palmer.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I was born and raised in west Texas in a small town called Monahans. I was lucky enough to be raised by very progressive parents. I think I was one of the only kids in west Texas whose parents didn’t listen to Modern Country music. My Mother loved all the British Invasion music and Motown and my Father loved Classic Rock. So right off the bat I was exposed to other cultures. They also allowed me to watch MTV and HBO when I was really young. I was about 4 years old when I started watching Music videos in the early eighties.
I know the energy and color schemes from eighties music video and movies were cemented in my brain. It wasn’t until I started collecting Garbage Pail Kids that I knew I wanted to be an artist. As a child all I drew were cartoons. This continued until my last year at Angelo State University. A Professor of mine accidentally saw my algebra folder that I had been doodling on during class. Since I didn’t understand what the Algebra teacher was saying I would just zone out and empty my brain in the paper. My Art professor said that my doodles had more personality and better compositions. I soon realized that I work better spontaneously. After Angelo State I attended The University of North Texas to obtain my Masters with an emphasis on Printmaking. During my time there I developed a deep love for Screen Printing. I soon realized that my cartoon work was too easy for viewers to interpret. I began to create pieces that focused on color and shape. It has been a fun challenge that I have yet to get tired of.
Please tell us about your art.
I remember my mother had an Andrew Wyeth book that she eventually gave me. I would look at it for hours. He was one of the first artists whose work didn’t just show you a place but put you in the place. It stimulated all of my senses. I soon realized I needed to make the viewers of my work feel the same vibe if I wanted them to connect with it. I really try and focus on certain color combinations that create a certain mood in the same way musicians play certain notes. I’m always amazed at the last chord on “A Day in The Life” by The Beatles. The way those notes work together really help close that song. I try to create my own rhythms and chords using colors and shapes.
I really try to turn my brain off while I work so I’m not always sure of the meaning behind each piece. I can usually tell what influenced it but I still have trouble deciding why I make certain design choices. If there is one thing I want the viewers to get from my work it’s the sense of escapism. With all the craziness in the world I think people need to get away sometimes whether it’s art, music, movies or books. Hopefully my art can take the viewer to another place even if it’s just for a short time.
What do you think about conditions for artists today? Has life become easier or harder for artists in recent years? What can cities like ours do to encourage and help art and artists thrive?
I think being an artist can be really rewarding at times and really rough at times. I know a lot of talented people who eventually gave up. It can be really defeating when you work so hard and you don’t get any recognition. It’s hard to find your audience sometimes. That’s why I always encourage younger artists to enter shows and constantly post your artwork on social media. If you’re an Artist not on social media you almost don’t exist. Get as many people to see your art as you can.
I can’t really tell if it’s easier or harder for artists now. I think the only real obstacles for an artist are self-doubt and laziness. I also see a lot of jealousy among artists. I feel art isn’t an individual sport it’s a team sport. If your local art scene is doing well it can only benefit you. You should be your only competition. Congratulate people on their success and take inspiration from their work and accomplishments.
The best way to encourage artists is to go to shows and buy art. You can get a killer piece of art for a nice price. You do not have to break the bank. You not only help the artist financially but you help encourage them to create more art.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
I am currently represented by RO2 Gallery in Dallas and I have work at Fort Works Art in Fort Worth. I will also have some sculptures at BRIT at The Fort Worth Botanic Gardens during Fall Gallery Night. I am also on Instagram as Glasstoucan.
Contact Info:
- Email: adampalmerart@gmail.com
- Instagram: Glasstoucan
Image Credit:
Photo credit of me- Kyle Hanson
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