When I first had the pleasure of interviewing our July artist, Jewan Herbert, back in December 2019, I I gave his article the headline: “Brilliant Colors, Bright Future.” I realize now those adjectives should both be switched; while his colors are bright, his future is brilliant, and he’s on the way to becoming a master of his craft. Read more below.
Nonahood News: The last time you were featured in Nonahood News was in 2019. How has your artistic journey evolved since then?
Jewan Herbert: Since my last time being featured in Nonahood News, I have participated in an art show at a museum called “Bronze Kingdom” for a show called “NagaLoka.” I have created a few commission pieces for clients that have had great results! I have also gotten myself into two art shows within the Orlando community in the very near future.
NHN: What are some of your latest accomplishments as an artist?
JH: I was very proud to create a commission piece for $1,350 for a client. I also created another commission for around $850. I also established my business and created a website for more of my consumers to find my work.
NHN: Walk me through a day (or a week) in your life of creating art.
JH: First, I’ll start with the backbone of the art, which is the idea and concepts. Once I’ve gotten that together, I’ll give the image time to marinate to see if it’s what I truly desire to convey. Next, I’ll go to my favorite art store, Michael’s, and gather all the colors necessary for the piece, along with whatever canvas I’m going for. Then, I’ll begin taking the concept I’ve created and apply it to the canvas. This is the most important step because once I have the image on the canvas, the rest of the work consists of adding my colors. Finally, I’ll take my time creating the masterpiece. Making sure that my lines are clean. Colors look good. And I sign the piece, usually at the bottom left of the canvas. I believe this to be a very aesthetically pleasing area for signatures on artwork. This process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.
NHN: Which of your latest projects has been your favorite? Which the most
challenging?
JH: The project that has been my favorite – and my most challenging – has to be my great 34 x 48 inch canvas of “chakra neon peacock.” This piece means so much to me. I created this piece as a REBIRTH to my new life when I moved into my own condo. It was the first piece I had created in the new space. At the same time, I was starting so many new chapters in my life, growing out of old habits and learning new skills. This was a challenging piece because my goal was to capture the essence of the peacock in all of its glory while still maintaining elements that are not so realistic. My favorite part of this painting is how bright it glows under fluorescent light. Pictures do NOT compare to seeing this masterpiece with your own eyes.
NHN: Which artists have inspired you most?
JH: Right now, the artist who inspires me the most is Anduy Goliat. He is an artist from Venezuela who is phenomenal in terms of his ability to replicate photos and realism.
NHN: Besides art, are there any other passions that you have?JH: Other than artistry, I am a huge fan of exercise, fitness, martial arts and weapons training! I am currently on my third year in Japanese ju-jitsu.
