Interview
CIRE B
Eric Barnett, known artistically as "Cire B," embodies a multifaceted persona as a dedicated Drill Sergeant within the esteemed ranks of the US Army, a visionary visual artist, and a staunch advocate for mental health awareness. Following a deeply affecting incident within his professional sphere, Cire B faced the challenge of reintegrating into his regular life. Amid the rigor and intensity that characterizes such environments, Cire B discovered solacons, and the very essence of his energy during those transient moments. It is this synthesis of elements that infuse his creations with a symphony of vibrant hues and concealed messages. Cire B ardently pursues a mission to kindle the intellect and spirits of countless individuals through the medium of art.
His art pieces, which he aptly describes as "portals" to the heart, mind, body, and soul, epitomize this intention. His artistic endeavors extend beyond traditional boundaries, frequently involving his audience in immersive and distinctive encounters. From orchestrating art-led financial workshops to curating paint and sip classes inspired by personal development, he ingeniously weaves interactive experiences that resonate on a profound level. Moreover, his live paintings during diverse performances elicit a transformative journey into the heart of the Cire B experience. Through his artwork, exhibitions, and enthralling performances, Cire B invites his guests to embark on a voyage of self-discovery, where epiphanies await, euphoria is unveiled, and dormant emotions are awoken. As an artist, advocate, and influential figure, Cire B's impact extends far beyond the canvas, profoundly touching the hearts and souls of those who engage with his remarkable creations and therapeutic respite in the world of painting, using art as a conduit for his emotions and a means of self-expression. The artworks he meticulously crafts serve as direct mirrors to his inner thoughts and emotions.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“I grew up in New Jersey surrounded by a mix of urban and natural landscapes, which really influenced my artistic style. My background isn't traditional in terms of formal art education, but I've always had a deep passion for creativity combining my experiences growing up in New Jersey and my time serving in the army. My artistic journey began unexpectedly during a deployment. I found myself seeking a creative outlet amidst the challenges of military life. Painting became my sanctuary, a way to unwind and process my thoughts and emotions. It started as a personal hobby, but little did I know it would transform my life. It was during the pandemic that I truly embraced art. With more time on my hands, I delved into painting more seriously. I started creating guided paint and sip kits, allowing others to share in the therapeutic joy of art. The response was amazing, and I was humbled to see how my kits resonated with people. As my work gained attention, I had the honor of catching the eye of high-profile collectors who appreciated the authenticity and story behind each piece. This recognition opened doors for me, and I was fortunate enough to be featured on Comcast, Xfinity, and in various magazines. My art reflects my journey – the discipline from my military service, the emotions of life experiences, and the newfound passion for painting. Each canvas is a piece of my story, a blend of colors that represent my past, present, and future. I'm grateful for the unexpected path that led me to the art world. It's a journey that constantly evolves, and I'm excited to see where it takes me next.”
What inspires you?
“At the core of my inspiration is the concept of love. Love is undeniably one of the most potent and transformative forces in existence. It drives us, connects us, and shapes our interactions with the world around us. My paintings often depict figures with hearts for heads, symbolizing the embodiment of love in all its forms. Whether it's romantic love, platonic love, self-love, or the universal love that binds us all, I aim to capture the essence of this powerful emotion. Through my art, I hope to evoke feelings of warmth, connection, and empathy. Each stroke of the brush is an attempt to translate these intricate emotions onto the canvas. It's my way of honoring the complexity of life, the resilience of the human spirit, and the boundless capacity of love!”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“One of the central themes in my art is the exploration of life itself. The journey from my past to my future, the challenges and triumphs, the moments of reflection and the aspirations for what lies ahead – all these elements find their place on my canvases. I strive to capture the essence of existence, celebrating its intricacies and the beauty it holds. Above all, the theme that resonates most powerfully in my work is love. Love is an all-encompassing force that has the ability to heal, connect, and transform. It's the driving inspiration behind my signature figures with heart-shaped heads. These figures represent the embodiment of love in its myriad forms – romantic, platonic, self-love, and the universal love that binds humanity together. My underlying message is one of connection and empathy. Through my art, I aim to remind viewers of the importance of love and compassion in a world that can sometimes feel disconnected. I want my paintings to evoke feelings of warmth and understanding, encouraging viewers to embrace the power of love in their own lives and interactions. In essence, my themes revolve around the celebration of life, the exploration of emotions, and the deep resonance of love. My art is a reflection of my journey, my experiences, and my belief in the fundamental goodness that exists within humanity.”
“My underlying message is one of connection and empathy. Through my art, I aim to remind viewers of the importance of love and compassion in a world that can sometimes feel disconnected.”
How would you describe your work?
“The diverse experiences, emotions, and interactions I've encountered find their way into my art, giving it a dynamic and multifaceted nature. The central theme that courses through my art is the concept of love. Love, as one of the most potent forces in existence, serves as the heartbeat of my work. My most recognizable pieces depict figures with heart-shaped heads, symbolizing the embodiment of love in its countless forms. This powerful emotion is a guiding light that infuses warmth, connection, and empathy into every stroke of the brush. If I were to describe my work succinctly, I would say it's a visual journey through life's intricate tapestry, narrated with the language of love. It's an exploration of emotions, a celebration of the human spirit, and an invitation for viewers to reflect on the power of love in their own lives.”
Which artists influence you most?
“The artists who inspire me the most are a diverse group that spans various styles and eras. Each of them has left a distinct mark on the art world, and their work resonates deeply with me. George Condo's ability to blend traditional and contemporary art influences, resulting in uniquely complex and thought-provoking pieces, has always captivated me. His exploration of the human psyche through art is both intriguing and inspiring. Malik Roberts' dynamic and innovative approach to art is truly remarkable. His ability to fuse vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and cultural references speaks to the modern artistic landscape and has encouraged me to push the boundaries of my own creativity.
King Saladeen's bold use of color and his unique fusion of street art and contemporary aesthetics have had a profound impact on my artistic perspective. His ability to infuse his art with social commentary and positive energy is something I deeply admire.
Vaughn Spann's exploration of identity and culture through his art resonates with me on a personal level. His ability to tell stories through abstract forms and convey emotions through color palettes has influenced my approach to conveying complex ideas through visual language. Jeff Koons' ability to turn everyday objects into iconic symbols of popular culture is nothing short of transformative. His mastery of scale, color, and form challenges my own perceptions of art and encourages me to think outside the box. Alec Monopoly's fusion of street art, pop culture, and financial motifs creates a distinctive visual language that's both engaging and thought-provoking. His ability to convey messages through playful yet impactful imagery inspires me to experiment with different approaches in my own work.
Pablo Picasso, a true visionary, has had a timeless influence on art. His relentless experimentation with styles and his groundbreaking approach to representation and abstraction have shaped the course of art history, and his audacity to innovate encourages me to constantly evolve in my artistic journey. Each of these artists has contributed to my growth and evolution as an artist. Their ability to push boundaries, explore new territories, and communicate ideas through their work fuels my own creative endeavors.”
What is your creative process like?
“My creative process is an immersive experience that begins with setting the mood. I often listen to R&B music, as it resonates with the emotions of love on multiple levels. The melodies and lyrics help me tap into those intricate feelings that I seek to convey through my art. To further enhance the ambiance, I prepare a drink of my choice, often something with a touch of alcohol, taking slow sips as I let the music flow through me. With my emotions stirred, I begin by writing down my thoughts and feelings in the moment. This helps me clarify the emotions I want to translate onto the canvas. Then, I choose colors intuitively – hues that resonate with the emotions I'm experiencing. This is where the magic really happens. I paint with a combination of brushes and my fingers, allowing me to truly immerse myself in the process and establish a direct connection between my emotions and the canvas. One unique aspect of my work is the use of fire. Fire, for me, symbolizes a burning desire to achieve more in life and serves as a tool to purify any negative energy. I incorporate flames into my art, and sometimes the fire even burns away parts of the canvas. This has become a signature of my style, representing both transformation and the beauty that emerges from it. My style is free-flowing and contemporary, characterized by vibrant colors and fluid forms. The process is about channeling emotions and allowing them to shape the strokes, shapes, and colors that emerge on the canvas.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“An artist's role in society is multifaceted and significant. Artists serve as cultural creators, observers, communicators, and catalysts for change. They play a vital role in reflecting the values, emotions, and narratives of their time, which helps shape and define the cultural landscape of society. In the evolving landscape, technology will continue to play a significant role. Virtual galleries, NFTs (non-fungible tokens), and other innovations offer new avenues for artists to showcase and monetize their work. Moreover, artists might become more involved in interdisciplinary collaborations with scientists, technologists, and policymakers to address complex global challenges. Overall, an artist's role will remain rooted in their ability to capture the essence of human experience, provoke thought, and inspire change. How they achieve this, however, will be influenced by the evolving tools, mediums, and interconnectedness of our modern world.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“One particularly remarkable moment was when I had the honor of being featured on Comcast and Xfinity through the Afro TV Network. This incredible opportunity allowed me to not only share my artistic journey but also showcase my art to a massive audience of over 14 million viewers. It was an unforgettable experience to connect with such a wide and diverse audience and to have my story resonate with people from various walks of life. I've also had the pleasure of showcasing my art in some iconic venues across major cities. One standout memory was located in the heart of Times Square in New York, where my work was displayed in NY Port Authority. The bustling energy and vibrant atmosphere of Times Square provided a perfect backdrop to showcase my art to both locals and visitors from around the world. Participating in events like Art Heart Fashion for New York Fashion Week and Art Basel in Miami, Florida, were also incredibly exciting milestones in my journey. These platforms allowed me to merge my art with the world of fashion and immerse myself in the dynamic art scene, connecting with fellow artists, enthusiasts, and collectors. Each exhibition and event has brought unique opportunities for me to share my artistic perspective, connect with people, and contribute to the broader art community. These experiences have shaped my artistic evolution and continue to inspire me to push the boundaries of my creativity. Thank you for giving me the chance to reflect on these remarkable exhibitions and the moments that have defined my journey as an artist.”
Website: www.cirebstudios.com
Instagram: @cire_b
