Je-Wan Herbert’s journey as an artist was inspiring to read about as we came to the close of 2019. It definitely got us thinking here at Nonahood News. Get to know Herbert as both a person and an artist in the following interview he had with us. His creative energy and luminous art will not disappoint.
Nonahood News: What drove you to become an artist?
Je-Wan Herbert: I have done art since I was a child. I’ve always found an interest in creating and working with vivid colors. My biggest inspirations are my aunt, who put up one of my first finished drawing[s] on her fridge. The second is my uncle, who is an amazing artist. He encouraged me to continue feeding my creativity.
NHN: When did you realize creating art was your passion?
JH: I realized creating art was my passion toward the end of high school during my senior year. Everything I did was focused on creating art in any way, shape or form.
NHN: How often do you find yourself creating art?
JH: I create art when I either have the free time or feel inspired to create. I don’t like to force my creative flow when it comes to art.
NHN: How long did it take you to discover yourself as an artist?
JH: I have observed that even in my lowest points in life, I have continued to create even when I did not feel up to the task. However, I believe that discovery of one’s self as an artist is a never-ending journey! As you grow and learn, your art and creativity will continue to shape and mold itself based upon your perspective of the world and your environment.
NHN: Which of your projects would you consider to be your favorites? (Pick a top three).
JH: My top three projects are the following:
- (Angels of the sea). This is a piece I did on a four feet by two feet canvas. The vibrant colors of the fish and the UV glow of the piece make it come to life.
- (Neon Butterfly). I enjoyed the entire process of this piece from start to finish. The piece makes me think of the inner beauty of women.
- (Big Wave). This piece I love because it was one of my first paintings! I remember the feeling I got from creating it.
NHN: Which of your projects was the most time-consuming/challenging and why?
JH: “Angels of the sea” was my most challenging piece for a variety of reasons. The canvas was huge, and the material of the canvas had a hard time holding acrylic paint. I had to apply paint very softly to the canvas with as little water as possible so that the paint would not run. The next challenging aspect was in applying the neon paint upon the dried acrylic in order to get the glow effect I had in my mind. The final challenge was finishing the painting [well] enough for a live event that I did in my area. I finished 80% of the piece at home then finished the rest of the piece at the event. It turned out amazing.
NHN: What are some of your dream projects?
JH: My dream projects are the following:
- Working with the artist Ten-Hundred. He has been a big inspiration to me on my artistic journey.
- Taking part in a gallery opening where I can discuss art with a multitude of different creative people or lovers of art. I’ve always dreamed of my art being in a gallery. A trendy gallery at that.
- Traveling to do murals in other states or countries!
NHN: What serves as your inspiration on a day-to-day basis?
JH: Experiencing life and not focusing every aspect of my life around art. It may sound counterproductive to some. For myself, however, living and soaking in some of life’s day-to-day energy allows me to come back to the drawing board with new fresh and creative ideas.
NHN: Future goals/plans?
JH: Excel in my art career through festivals and murals within my local area. Build a website to showcase my work and communicate with people who are interested in my work or working with me on bigger projects. Never stop creating or practicing, even when I am feeling discouraged or afraid of taking on a bigger project or learning something new.
