Martin Pryce
What first inspired you to try art?
From a young age, I found myself captivated by the creative world, significantly influenced by my older brother, John, who is an accomplished Plein air painter. His passion for art was infectious and sparked my initial interest in the field.
Was there ever a moment you wanted to quit art altogether, and if so, what brought passion and inspiration back?
Yes, there have been moments when the path seemed daunting. Initially, I delved into commercial art as a practical means to financially support my ultimate ambition of becoming a professional fine artist. This transition renewed my passion and served as a stepping stone towards achieving my dream.
Have you gone to art school or are you self-taught? If you're self-taught, what resources or exercises did you use to learn?
I attended HB Beal Arts and Tech High School, which offered an extensive five-year art program. The institution provided me with a solid foundational skill set and introduced me to various art mediums and techniques.
What is the most challenging part about being an artist for you? How did you overcome that challenge?
The most daunting challenge for me was juggling commercial art responsibilities with my aspiration to excel in fine art. This was primarily driven by the need to support my family. Over time, I transitioned and balanced both worlds, ultimately allowing my fine art to become a self-sustaining venture.
What does art mean to you?
Art for me is both a source of immense pride and an intrinsic part of my identity. It serves as a conduit for self-expression and allows me to engage deeply with the world around me.
What would you recommend to new artists trying to build a career? What are the keys to success?
For emerging artists, I recommend first identifying a subject and style that genuinely captivate you. Once you have that focal point, seek out artists who inspire you and offer valuable learning experiences. Learn actively from their work, as this will serve as a crucial stepping stone toward your own success.
What would you go back and tell your younger artistic self if you could?
I would advise my younger self to not just rely on formal education. Real growth comes from engaging directly with professionals and practitioners in the field. Additionally, it's imperative to remember that drawing serves as the foundation for all types of art. Investing time to hone your drawing skills will pay dividends across all artistic endeavours.
Where do you see yourself in the future? What are some of your goals?
I envision myself being showcased in some of the top galleries across North America. As I move forward, I plan to continually refine my skills in painting and also diversify my artistic palette by exploring other mediums such as sculpture and woodworking.
What drives the inspiration in your paintings? How would you describe your style?
My inspiration often springs from the collective creativity and expertise of my fellow artists. As for my style, I would describe it as fluid. I'm in a constant state of evolution, perpetually seeking to integrate new methods and techniques into my work to keep it fresh and engaging.
Instagram @martinpryceartist