Meet Alison Hamil: Visual Artist and Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Alison Hamil and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alison, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
All of the work that goes on behind the scenes. I get the impression that people think that all I do is paint pretty pictures, but there’s so much more that actually goes into the process that people never get to see. I probably only land about 1 out of every 10 applications and proposals that I write. When I do land a project, the design work involved is sometimes way more time-consuming than actually executing the project. There are all of the ideas that never make it and the back and forth revision process between myself and clients. I do all of my own marketing, accounting, and administrative work. I built and maintain my own website. I shoot and edit all of my own photos, prepare for public artist talks, do interviews and PR. It’s a lot! 

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m a visual artist and designer based in Atlanta, Georgia. I do a lot of things, but am primarily a painter, working mostly with water-based paints. I knew I wanted to be an artist since childhood, and decided to pursue a degree in graphic design when I entered college. I actually ended up majoring in drawing and painting, but I took some entry-level graphic design classes when I was in school that have been imperative to my professional success. I use those skills that I learned in almost everything that I do, and now specialize in bridging the gap between technology and traditional drawing and painting. Combining both sets of skills has allowed me to tackle many different types of projects including mural and sign painting and chalk art, and has given me an extra edge in my fine art painting. I struggled to find my path right out of college, but a few years later I began doing commercial murals and sign painting for restaurants. This gave me the experience I needed to pursue my passion in public mural projects. I have received several public art commissions from the City of Atlanta, and was able to work directly with the Mayor of Brookhaven, GA on a pandemic mural during the spring of 2020. Painting murals is my absolute favorite thing to do. I love collaborating with clients and stakeholders to bring art to public spaces for everyone to enjoy. I also love working on such a large scale. Since murals are usually viewed from a distance, it allows me to loosen up and overcome my tendency to fuss with details. My creative path has been anything but easy. The life of an artist comes with many challenges, including loneliness, financial struggles, and just having the confidence to put yourself out there. Rejection is something I’ve become all too familiar with, and uncertainty is my constant companion. There is no such thing as stability when you’re a self-employed creative. It’s a very vulnerable path, but can be SO rewarding when you tough it out and stick with it. I’m very happy with where I am now and everything I’ve been able to accomplish, and look forward to what lies ahead.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
My favorite place to explore in Atlanta is Oakland Cemetery, so I’d recommend going there and then to eat across the street at Six Feet Under. I also love the eclectic neighborhoods like Little Five Points, East Atlanta, and Downtown Decatur. Krog Street Tunnel is a must. And this is random, but the view of downtown from the Westbound MARTA train headed out of Five Points is one of my favorites. Blue Heron Nature Preserve in Buckhead is a hidden gem – I have 3 murals there and am the 2020 Artist in Residence, so it will always hold a special place in my heart. Piedmont Park and the Atlanta Botanical Gardens are also definitely worth a visit.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to give a shoutout to my husband, Joseph. I wouldn’t be where I am today without his support and honest critique of my work. I also want to thank my Mom for always encouraging me and never doubting my abilities. It makes a world of difference when you know that someone always has your back, even in the face of failure.

Website: http://alisonhamil.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alisonhamilart/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisonhamil/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlisonHamilArt/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/AlisonhamilArt/