Interview With Digital Artist, Joey Santiago

Digital artist, Joey Santiago, is interviewed by Lori Lebel.

Interviewer, Lori Lebel, is an artist, in her own right. This is her latest. (You can see past articles here.)

Digital artist, Joey Santiago.

1. What inspired you to become an artist?

Back in 2003, I watched an artist on Youtube by the name of Jonas Gerard. He did things with canvas and paint, that I thought was magic. I’ve always considered myself an artist since very young, but it was Jonas Gerard from where my true inspiration came from.

2. How did you get into creating digital abstract painting?

I’ve came across other artists that was using this technology to produce their pieces of art. I wanted to find a solution that would keep me painting everyday, while not overstocking on physical artwork. State of the art software, allows for me produce artwork, the same way as I would with paint on canvas.

“I Can Dream About You” by Joey Santiago

3. What has been the most rewarding part of your art career?

I believe it’s knowing that when I produce a piece of art, that I’m emotionally connecting to someone just waiting to see what I created. To know that my work is adored and appreciated, that’s a reward within itself. I live for those moments everyday.

4. What has been the most challenging part?

Building a website and placing your work on it, that’s the easy part. The challenging part, is getting exposure and recognition. Getting noticed is challenging work. I do put in a lot of hours in promotion and posting to social media. It’s quite the challenge but one that I enjoy.

“Kiss of the Blue Jay” by Joey Santiago.

5. How has your art evolved over time?

My art evolved over time as a result of taking pointers from other artists and then applying myself from there. For example; although my use of color has always been my strength, I lacked composition. 6 years ago I came across another great abstract painter by the name of David Kessler. He shared with me the 10 classic design compositions in abstract art. I had no idea that they even existed. to summarize, my art over time evolved simply by taking a page from another artist’s book.

6. What advice would you give to aspiring artists?

I would say, never give up no matter what. Don’t let criticism discourage you. If anything, capitalize on it. Don’t be afraid to reach out to other artists to ask for their advice. It certainly worked for me and By doing so, you would receive a wealth of education for free.

“Mass Appeal” by Joey Santiago

7. Your use of color is breathtaking.  How do you decide what colors to use for a piece?

I use a 12 color wheel. This is a powerful tool when it comes to mastering color relationships. I pick a color, let the wheel tell me what the split complimentary colors are, and I go from there. It is by far one of the secrets to my success, when it comes to use of color.

8. What do you see in the future for your art goals?

I always wanted to own an art / music venue where I can display my work wall to wall, feature live acoustic music, feature works of other artists, Karaoke, and yes, serve some wine. In fact, I already have a name picked out, “The Art Gallery Playhouse”. But most importantly continue to produce and grow as an artist.

9. How do you balance your personal life with your art career?

That’s easy. Family first. I’m kind of a nut when it comes to time management, making everything about a schedule, and then sticking to it. In the end everything gets accomplished and balanced.

“Violet Hill” by Joey Santiago

10. What projects are you currently working on?

Digital abstract painting is my current project. This is quite new for me and I am extremely exited about it. Once I complete a piece, I upload it to zazzle.com in which they print my work on canvas for me. Not only canvases but I can have my work printed on anything from coffee mugs to men’s neck ties.

For more information on Joey and his art, please visit his website: https://joeysantiagofineart.blogspot.com