Today we’d like to introduce you to Bill Taylor.
Bill, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I’ve always had an interest in the Arts. When I was in 3rd grade, I won 2nd place in an art contest at school. As a young child, being recognized for something that came natural to me and that I enjoyed doing was the best feeling.
In my teens, I became a bit more serious about painting, illustration, and created my first logo design. I went on to study Fine Art and Illustration at California State University Long Beach and Art Center College of Design. Soon after, I knew I wanted to continue in a creative path and put my entrepreneurial spirit to work. For the next 42 years of my life, I built and operated a successful logo, corporate identity and design studio. I’ve worked with many different companies curating the perfect logo and branding that could be instantly recognizable and remembered by an audience. I am proud of the accolades and awards I have received over the years as a designer and it is gratifying to still see many of the logos that I created still standing strong.
In 2010 I decided to step back and reevaluate the direction I wanted to go in, this is when my artistic painting journey began. I had remodeled my home to a more contemporary design, with that included a stainless-steel fireplace hearth and surround. I knew that I wanted a painting displayed on the stainless steel to balance this new element in my home. I pulled out the paintbrushes and canvas and I realized that this is what I wanted to do for the rest of my days. In case you’re wondering, that first painting was of John Coltrane. As a Jazz connoisseur, I could not think of a better subject. The piece was created with oil paint on canvas. The artwork had a lot of texture and it had just the right amount of soul, emotion, and color that was needed for this newly renovated area.
My passion lies in creating paintings that capture the heart and soul of my subject. I’ve spent the last several years developing a painterly language through which I seek to capture the “likeness” and the vitality of the subject. By painting and designing distinct shapes of bright color, the viewer’s subconscious and conscious mind has to deconstruct and reconstruct the fragments of color into something the viewer can recognize. By viewing the painting up close one perspective is seen but, seeing the painting from afar, a different perspective is seen. With my brush, I celebrate and commemorate the amazing faces and beautiful objects in our world. I’ve recently ventured into developing a series of wine vignettes based on that same painterly language. I am proud to have these wine inspired paintings on display at three fine-dining restaurants in Southern California.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
When you are in business for yourself, there are always ups and downs. What I try to do in a slow period is think of how I can be more creative and apply that thought process for when business picks up. Fortunately, my business career has been very steady.
Please tell us more about your art.
I am an artist that specializes in abstract portrait paintings and wine inspired images. I’m known for capturing the energy and likeness that lies in my subjects. When viewing my work at a close range, it becomes more abstract and as you move away, it falls into focus. I work with oil on a larger scale canvas, at least 3’ square or larger. Some of my most admired work is through commissions where I have the opportunity to work with collectors to create one of a kind works of art that is personal to them. It is an honor and quite humbling when the finished pieces are met with heartfelt gratitude and awe.
Original artwork is amazing to own but sometimes it is not in the budget. In an effort to share my artistic vision with as many people as possible, I offer high-quality prints at affordable prices.
What were you like growing up?
I was a pretty easy going kid growing up. I enjoyed the outdoors, loved to build things, and was involved in athletics. I was always someone that had a drive in me. If there was something that I really wanted or if I was challenged, I worked hard, stayed focused, and always gave it my all. Fortunately, this trait has still stayed with me and has brought me much success.
Contact Info:
- Website: wbtaylorfineart.com
- Phone: 714.394.9603
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @wbtaylor_fineart
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