On the Next Level is a series of interviews that features artists of the Art Nxt Level academy. The artists share their stories of how the academy has impacted their careers as well as share the exciting projects they have been working on. These artists have made the most of their experience and have taken their careers to the next level.
Today’s featured artist is painter and drawer Gail Williams.
What inspired you to do the 30 mothers in 30 days and 30 fathers in 30 days series? What has the process been like?
Gail: I created my 30 Mothers and Fathers after I had done a 30 faces challenge. I like the fact that having something to do each day kept me creating every day. I wanted to practise my drawing skills and I wanted to generate some income. So I used the tips about posting often, having a call to action, and offering more than just the artwork. I think that using all those things made the difference. The thing that surprised me was that I established an emotional connection with the mothers and am doing so with the fathers too. I never expected that and when I write about it, it seems to resonate with my audience. People I have never met or people I don’t know are following me are connecting with photos for me or just commenting.
I think my voice is coming through more now and my values of having fun, being courageous and vulnerable are being commented on.
My dream is to inspire creativity and I am often told that I do.
When did you discover the Art Nxt Level Academy and how has it been able to give an edge to your art career? What about the way you approach your art career has changed since joining the academy?
Gail: I joined ArtNxtLevel last year after I’d seen Breakfast with Sergio and watched several of his youtubes as I was interested in his process of attaching paper to canvas. I got hooked on him because I find his personality charming and I’ve stayed because his content is second to none. I like that he is in the trenches with artists and keeps up to date with the latest. I like the challenges he sets up too. I’ve learned a lot about being consistent and planning. I think that the planning part is finally sinking in and I see the importance of it. I can’t just ‘do my art’ when I feel like it if I want to grow my career. Which I do.
Do you have any additional thoughts or comments you would like to share concerning your projects or Art Nxt Level?
Gail: I love the FB group and I don’t attend many zooms as I honestly hate Zoom. I find it very boring. My studio doesn’t have Wifi so I can’t watch while I work. I also like how the encouragement to use video has taken away that anxiety for me. Of course, I do love Dr.Yanina. I must admit I don’t use her segments as much but when I do I find them very helpful.
Art Nxt Level is made up of artists from all over the world. Where are you located?
Gail: I live in Toronto, Canada.
Click here to see Gail’s upcoming show happening June 18-July 2. To see more of Gail’s art, check out her website and social media following the links below:
https://www.gailwilliamsartist.com/