Story & Lesson Highlights with William Wray of Sierra Madre

We’re looking forward to introducing you to William Wray. Check out our conversation below.

Hi William, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
The rare times when I’m painting where I go into the zone and get a whole painting done without taking a break- – fully confident as I go — without really thinking. Being in the zone Is the best feeling- -and you ask yourself how the fuck did I do that – I wish I could do that every time… but half the time it’s a focus struggle- a quarter of the time it’s easy enough technically- but I’m not really lost in the process-

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
It would certainly be my history of doing animation, illustration, comic books— and then when going onto Fine Art— going from realism to impressionism to semi- abstraction to full abstraction and now I’m adding conceptual building stuff or modifying the existing-then I go backwards and do it all again.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
Painting as a child- my art was an escape from a tortured childhood.

What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
My parents lack of interest in having children— I tell myself I forgive them, but the wounds still slowly bleeds in PTSD nightmares. But I’m with a wonderful woman who saves me every day.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Where are smart people getting it totally wrong today?
That the people should be enemies of each each other because of their political beliefs- the enemy is not your conservative or liberal neighbor- it’s big corporate and entrenched military power pitting you against each other because united —we could push them around. We need to be like the French when they’re mad at their government. The whole country goes on strike as one unit but don’t get me started.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What will you regret not doing? 
When I was young being resentful conceptual and abstract art- convinced the Fine Art world thought skill was poison— so worked in commercial art- but if I had been more patient and confident- I could’ve found a way to make my skills work with ideas— despite the dominance of conceptual art and graffiti art-

Contact Info:

• Website: williamwray..com
• Instagram: william_wray
• Facebook: William Wray