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

Hi April, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
As a artist, knowing when you’ve completed a project can be a complicated process. After spending hours with brush in hand, stepping back hundreds of times to see a larger perspective of my work; adding another line here, more shading there. The small pieces gathered to create a complex idea that was once only a vision in my mind. The conception of a painting is shrouded until the first strokes on canvas begin, from there I take my time to elaborate the necessary steps to bring the vision to light. Starting with a small mass of lines and shapes, a map is created to navigate this painting into it’s next step of development. Bringing depth into reality, the shapes create form, in which a new realm is opened. The canvas that was blank now holds a world within it. I can see the vision. I create contrast to bring focus to the subject and apply technique to allow my creative signature to come through. I step away, to see the picture, from which was only an idea, I see where there needs more balance, more detail, and add color and texture to establish more movement for the eye to follow. As my painting incubates, the small mass of shapes has become an image worthy of admiration. I stare endlessly at the canvas as it has grown into the vision I had to originate the process. After more detailing, I can finally say, “It is done.” This occurrence feels more like an intuition rather than knowledge. I can finally feel the complete nature of my painting, and it’s form has come into fruition. This basis for creating my art is the same principle as how I know whether to give up or keep going. In my life, I had begun many journeys that did not lead me to where my path wanted me to go. In each of those endeavors I was met with obstacles and challenges which were never overcame, leading me once again to painting. I was certain that what I was doing was the right thing, yet fate brought me to a new understanding. I was meant to paint. I sat and meditated on the idea that I would be and artist, and not a detective or accountant, and wondered if I would be able to support my son. But in the moments of silence, the answer was clear. I use meditation to guide my thoughts in the right direction, just like I use it to guide my paintings as they are created. The feelings are always more certain than what my mind tries to rationalize. I know that I must keep going until the objective is complete, and take more time when the composition still requires mending. When it is done, I will know by simply feeling and seeing the final outcome.

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.
My art is a blend of realism with a dream-like quintessence, inspired by the natural patterns found throughout the world. I like to share the fluidity of life with my art. My paintings carry and ethereal feeling of movement that brings you to see familiar scenes in a new way. I use geometry as I establish my paintings and bring them into existence. I focus on painting nature and imaginative realms and bridge the gap between the real and un-seen. My path into this career was not easy, it’s taken a load of determination, persistence and continuing effort to evolve. I remained focused on my goal to be a successful artist, and aligned all my actions to aid in my quest. Each time I was faced with challenge, I saw opportunity. Each time I failed, I saw something I could learn.

I call myself Priism because the art I create comes from visions I receive, I don’t feel like they are mine to own. I am a vessel that is used to bring the images for others to see. Priism refracts the light into a myriad of formations and creations, allowing the light to show the true visions.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If I had a friend visiting Atlanta I would definitely take them on a walk along The Beltline, walking from neighborhood to neighborhood. We would have the luxury of stopping and having small bites to eat along the way. We would hit Mushi-Ni in East Atlanta Village and go shopping around Little Five Points. We would enjoy piedmont park and midtown, and see the what ever exhibit is happening at The High Museum. Then jump on Marta to get to Buford for some killer Asian cuisine. With a whole week we could hit almost every neighborhood of Atlanta.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I wouldn’t be where I am today without the encouragement and support I’ve received from my family, my friends and fellow artists! Every turn I doubted myself y’all were there to tell me to keep going, to try something new, to take the risks and develop my artistic career. My gratitude is immense for each of you! Without your support and inspiration, I know I wouldn’t be where I am today.

Website: https://www.priismart.com/

Instagram: @Priism.Art

Facebook: Priism Art

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