10 Questions with Tony J. Smith
Tony J. Smith is a long-time Graphics Arts professional and self-trained artist. His paintings explore the human and ordinary side of life. He evokes a variety of emotions with each piece, allowing the observer to feel a new sense of connection. A perpetual student of life, Tony now works full-time on his art and artist opportunities.
Tony spent the majority of his forty-year career as a Graphics Arts Manager while raising a family of four. His art practice is greatly influenced by his family, who were involved with helping people in the community through politics, social clubs, journalism, and music. He endeavors to capture the essence of a person, place, or thing.
Tony J. Smith - Portrait
“In my practice,” states Tony, “My work is my mission to reveal emotion, beauty & strength in every subject I paint.
Tony’s accolades include having his work selected for public gallery spaces throughout the U.S. and abroad. Recent events include Various Los Angeles Art Association curated exhibits, Dab Art, 2024 Black Creativity Show in Chicago, Holy Art Athens, Boomer Gallery London, and a solo show at The Artist Tree as a member of Artlounge Collective. More on Tony can be found here on tjaysart.com.
Freedom isnt free is it © Tony J. Smith
INTERVIEW
When and how did you start getting involved with art?
I started drawing at an early age. I remember drawing at 6 or 7 because I was very sick with Asthma and was in bed a lot. My Mother commented on how well I drew, and that inspired me to continue to do it. When I was 17, I was fortunate enough to travel to Washington, D.C., to intern for Congress, and I did a small commission for an Executive Staff member. When I returned to finish High School, I was further inspired by my Art Class teacher, who told me I could have a career in art if I worked hard for it.
Are you still following the same inspiration?
Yes, I always try to remember and honor the people who helped me up to now. And how did your work evolve over time? My first job in art was in 1980, and due to the technical nature of the profession, most of my creative energy was used learning and honing my craft in Layout, Typography, Camera and Film techniques, and eventually, Computer Software and Hardware. I really didn't paint or even draw very much for well over 20 years until 2019, when we moved closer to the coast.
2peas © Tony J. Smith
James Baldwin © Tony J. Smith
Let's talk about your work. You come from a graphic design background, what inspired you to work with painting?
I've always loved the great master impressionists and aspired to do work that would somehow have that "Magic" they made.
You have a striking style, with recognizable elements and bold colors. How would you define your style?
Recently, a Gallerist called my style Hyperrealism; however, I am still just beginning to find my way around, so I let others decide what they think of my work. And how has it evolved over the years? My confidence with painting has developed, as well as my ability to paint for myself, which I believe is the key to developing my voice and demand for my work.
Missionbell © Tony J. Smith
How do you choose the subjects of your paintings?
Many times, I have waking dreams or visions that help guide my work, and I like to take photos of scenes and use old photos as part of my work, especially when painting family members or important historical figures. And what is your creative process like? I work from found objects, photographs, memories, and visions, and I always look for ordinary everyday scenes to create something extraordinary.
Where do you find inspiration for your work?
I'm very interested in faces, and the emotions conveyed, as well as just snapshots in time and space. Deep Emotional Impact is the goal. If I can achieve that regardless of my style, I will have made my work mean something to the world.
Shirley Chisholm Trailblazer © Tony J. Smith
What are you working on now, and what are your plans for the future in terms of new projects?
I'm working on three projects at the same time. My newest piece will be a large scene with an older woman and a very young girl about a moment of joy and love that happens in an instant but lasts forever. My subject matter is all over the place right now as my brain works that way.
Do you have any upcoming shows or collaborations you are looking forward to?
I have several pieces in upcoming shows in Chicago, Los Angeles, and Hermosa Beach, CA.
Finally, share something you would like the world to know about you.
I want the world to know that I am an example of a person who has been through many difficult and wonderful life situations and has tried hard to give the world something that will inspire someone somewhere someday.
Artist’s Talk
Al-Tiba9 Interviews is a promotional platform for artists to articulate their vision and engage them with our diverse readership through a published art dialogue. The artists are interviewed by Mohamed Benhadj, the founder & curator of Al-Tiba9, to highlight their artistic careers and introduce them to the international contemporary art scene across our vast network of museums, galleries, art professionals, art dealers, collectors, and art lovers across the globe.
