talking with painter c. kirk

(((–)}}} © c. kirk {{{|}}}

I met C. Kirk about three years ago when I had a gallery here in Dallas. He has always been one of my favorite artists to exhibit for a couple of reasons:

1. He had a quiet confidence about him.2. He cared about his art.3. He was on the verge of finding his voice and willing to work hard to get there.

After visiting his site www.ckirkart.com – it was great to see that he has been busy… I mean real busy. It’s been a while since we’ve talked so I decided to chat it up with him.

So, when did you get involved with painting… early? or late in the game?c.kirk :::: I’ve drawn from as early as I can remember.  I went to college to study graphic design in 2000, dropped out, didn’t so much as pick up a pencil for 4 years, did some “Hobo” style traveling during the down time, and suddenly… out of nowhere decided to start painting in 2004.Was there a moment (artistically) where everything seemed to click for you? Meaning when did technical mastery and creative inspiration collide?c.kirk :::: I’ve had lots of those moments.  They come and go for me.  One such moment happened in 2006 when several of my assemblege pieces from my “South Dallas Recycle Projects” were snatched up by art collectors. Those were my first sales.  I realized that not only did people like my art, but they were willing to spend their hard earned cash on it and live with my art on their walls on a daily basis.How do you think your work has progressed over the years? Are there certain themes or subjects you tend to want to explore more than others?c.kirk ::::  I’ve had the luxury of working in so many different mediums over the last 6 years that it’s hard for me to put my finger on how my work has progressed.  The only thing I can think of off the top of head would be that I started paying closer attention to contemporary art that’s being created worldwide.  I still look toward the old masters for ways to improve my art, but I am educated on the great art of today.I love the movement and graphic elements in your paintings — Can you tell us a little bit about your style and influences?c.kirk ::::  Movement is something I enjoy.  I like to rubb, splatter, mix media, ect… I realized at somepoint that every action of every brush stroke, rub or wipe can be seen if you want it to and that it often makes the piece more interesting.You’ve exhibited quite a bit over the last few years and gained a reputation as one of Dallas’ “most prolific artists” – Can you give our readers some advice on how to get work shown or out there?c.kirk :::: I think the “Prolific” thing came from the amount of art I produce. I’ve been fortunate enough to make art full time for a few years… I’d say the reason I’ve managed to get the title “Prolific” would be because I’ve been able to invest so much time into making, exhibiting, and promoting my art. As far as advice to artists wanting to get their work shown:Learn how to take rejection and criticism, , learn to talk about & promote your art, pay attention to what came before you and what is going on in art now, use the internet to your advantage… let folks all over the world know that you and your art exist, find someone that knows more than you and listen to them, get your art out of Dallas.  It’s a big world out there.What keeps you from not giving up on your dream?c.kirk ::::  Anytime I get low I try and remember that I’ve gotten this far and have accomplished alot in a relatively short period of time.  It would be a shame to quit just because a bad day or a slow period hits……PLUS, I’m a highschool dropout, a college dropout, and a reformed felon….I don’t have many career choices….LOL!Oh one last thing, if you were on death row what would your last meal and drink be?c.kirk :::: Coffee with 2 spoons of sugar and the most decedant piece of chocolate cake that would be available.