Arts
Joseph Pearson is an Asheville oil painter on a mission. He paints pieces that convey his values and send a message to the viewer about societal issues. He expressed during this interview that if he created work that didn't make a statement, he would feel that he was "talking to hear myself talking." I met Joseph during the Fall 2016 River Arts District Studio Stroll, where he works out of his studio at Pink Dog Creative. I was quite taken with his piece "The Talk" and asked Joseph to tell me about it. He spoke strongly about the responsibility of adults to provide guidance for the next generation. And he showed me other pieces that reflect the same message. I was very impressed with Joseph's explanation and mission and invited him to be on the show, telling him I would be in touch in the Spring. I didn't really need to do anymore interviews until then. However, the very same day I met Joseph, I also happened to meet a young man at a local health food store who was absolutely despondent over the state of our society. He was despondent and inconsolable... I could not shake the connection of meeting both of these men on the same day, so I invited Joseph to be interviewed sooner than later, and he graciously agreed. To connect with Joseph and see more of his work: SCROLL below! Visit his website at http://www.josephart.net Follow his public posts on his Facebook page Joseph is available for commissioned portraits, both human and pet Highlights of this interview include: Joseph's talking about the meaning behind several of his paintings Examples of how Joseph has used his art and his life to do good for children in need How Joseph compares his art to medicine Joseph's history of receiving numerous artist grants (including full scholarship 4 out of 5 years at the Art Students League of NY) Joseph's tips for other artists who may be interested in seeking grants themselves More examples of Joseph's work (discussed in the interview): Because Joseph has been recently awarded a grant, he asked me to mention that his work is supported by the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Cultural Resources, a state agency, with funding from local arts councils in Buncombe, Madison, Mitchell, and Yancey Counties, and with support from Avery County. Save Save Save Save Save Save Save Save Save Save Save Save Save Save Save Save Save Save Save Save Save Save Save Save