Interview
Jyremy Reid
Jyremy Reid was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. He received two undergraduate degrees - a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and an Associate’s in Commercial Art, from Oakwood University. He also received a Master of Business Administration degree in General Management and Marketing from La Sierra University.
At the age of three, Reid began teaching himself how to draw. His mother recounts that since he was such an active child, she gave him art supplies to keep himself preoccupied. From then on he found his niche in the art world and taught himself how to draw and paint through diligent study and practice.
A few of his works have been published in Oakwood Magazine, Message Magazine, and a few other areas. It hasn't always been a smooth ride, but he has no doubt that his abilities are a gift from God. Reid’s main desire is to use his artistic gifts for the Master Creator and to serve Him in the best way possible.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“I was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. I began my journey in the art world at the super young age of three years old. I was a very active toddler during that time - my mom decided to help channel a lot of early energy into art. She bought me a crayon set and pads of paper. From that moment onward, I began to teach myself how to draw. My mom recounts a time when we were in church and my grandmother looked over at me while I was sketching. In shock, she told my mom, "Look, he's drawing the church podium!" My mom didn't believe it at first because of my age, but once she saw my sketch for herself, she began to encourage my journey even more. My dad has artistic abilities as well and used to show me his drawings from high school. I would say that I got the art gene from him. But ultimately, I received this gift from God.’’
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“I find many religious themes inspiring. I grew up Christian, Seventh-day Adventist to be more exact, so there has always been a strong foundation in Biblical themes in a lot of my artwork. Yet, I also like to delve into contemporary and secular themes to add more variety in my work. My personal experiences are also fuel for some of my pieces. It really all depends on how I'm feeling in the moment and the theme for a particular time of my life.”
How would you describe your work?
“I would describe my work as traditional yet contemporary. I always aim to show expression through various colors in the skin tones, in order to produce a vibrant final product.”
Which artists influence you most?
“Michelangelo in my favorite renaissance artist. The story of how he created the Sistine Chapel is motivational to say the least. I also like more modern artists like Voka, Peter Terrin, Dominic Beyeler, and Dina Brodsky just to name a few. Last but not least, I have to mention my mentor Cecil Bernard. He's the one who inspired my passion for painting.”
“The inspiration for my work comes from the miracle of life, spiritual insight, and the simple pleasure of living in the moment. People are my favorite subjects. I love capturing different expressions.”
What is your creative process like?
“I usually start with an idea that I'll sketch on paper. These ideas can come from several sources. Then, I'll take a therapeutic trip to the art store to buy the necessary supplies. I'll prepare the canvas and get right to work. I love listening to historical documentaries, podcasts, music and even sermons while painting. I rarely paint in silence, but maybe I should give it a try to see how it affects my work one of these days.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“I believe an artist's role in society is to capture the underlying feelings of the masses and to convey his or her own views. Over the years, we've seen art change into different styles and through various mediums. The only way I see it evolving depends on how drastic our reality changes in the coming years.”
