FAA Spotlight An Artist interview with Anthony Mwangi

Fine Art America Spotlight is an opportunity to get to know some of the fantastic people creating and sharing artwork within this community. As artists, we must support each other. Each of us possess an intimate understanding of the creative process. It is this intimate understanding that allows us to truly appreciate the work of our fellow artists. I have taken it upon myself to interview some of my personal favorites here at FAA. I am deeply honored to present these interviews as they occur. Having said that, I am very excited to present my interview with another of my absolute favorite artist: Anthony Mwangi! Hailing from Nairobi, Kenya, Anthony brings the culture of his homeland to us in brilliantly colored detail. Please feel free to leave comments. Without further ado:

Question: As an artist, what inspires you to create? How does your creative process work?

Anthony: I’m inspired by nature and the love to utilize my artistic talent/gift. I believe art is first free and then monetary. Sometimes I get ideas from dreams and day-to-day experiences. Other ideas come from things people do or say. I then put sketches on canvas and create. Most of the time the final work really looks different from my imagination or dream. It just gets a life of it’s own.

Question: Can you share a few of your favorite artists? What is it about their work that draws you to them?

Anthony: David Shepherd, Herbert Rudeen, Russell Harlan and Pablo Picasso. They’re all dead but were great artists. They did incredible works of art that show a lot of talent.

Question: What are your favorite mediums for creating artwork?

Anthony: Oil, acrylic, water colors and digital medium

Question: How long have you been an artist?

Anthony: Since I was in grade 5 in primary school. I have also been an illustrator, graphics designer and 3D animator as a way to subsidize my income.

Question: Have you displayed your work elsewhere? If so, where?

Anthony: Apart from Fineartamerica, I have also featured my work on Displate.com, Society6.com and redbubble.com

Question: Aside from artwork, what are you passionate about?

Anthony: Music, Dancing and listening to my kids

Question: Do friends and family show support for your creative endeavors? Who is your primary supporter when it comes to your artwork?

Anthony: Yes they do. In my younger days, my mother was my main supporter and cheerleader. Without her encouragement, I doubt I would have pursued my art to the level I have. Today, my main supporters are my wife and children.

Question: What do you get out of art? Can you describe what art means to you?

Anthony: A lot of joy and satisfaction. Art is my way of expressing gratitude for all the beautiful creation around me.

End of Interview

Please show Anthony some love and visit his amazing gallery by clicking the link below. Also, it would be wonderful to hear your thoughts. Share them with us in the comments section below. Thank you Anthony, for both participating in this interview and sharing your fantastic artwork with us.