CityLifer Shawn King is keeping himself super busy these days; in addition to his IT gig, working in film production, and producing his own films for the Long Beach Film Festival, he has recently started showing and creating his artwork again. Keeping up with Shawn makes even us a bit tired, BUT I was very happy (and a bit proud) to see that I'll be able to catch him for this months First Fridays showing at the Expo Building (one of the core spots of First Fridays)!

So, in preparation to finally being able to see some of his collection in person, I wanted to sit with him and find out a bit more about what drives him, and get his take on the LB Art Scene.

What's your source of inspiration for your art?
My source of inspiration for my artwork is life itself. The choices, the ups and downs and the challenges of life have inspired all of my paintings. I am thankful for the life challenges God has given me to walk through so HE can be glorified as I overcome those choices and challenges.

Why and when did you first start taking your art seriously?
I’ve always taken art seriously…including my own. I once was a graffiti artist in L.A; loving the street life, growing out of this season in my life I turned to the canvas with the encouragement of my wife Roberta who is also an artist.

Where else do you show your work?

I’ve shown my art works from L.A., Manhattan Beach to Orange County.: I’ve shown in local galleries here in Long Beach as well, 2nd City Council Gallery, Picture This Galley and The Catalyst Network Gallery. My artwork is currently represented in two other galleries: Neon Venus Art Gallery in Hollywood and The Happening Gallery in Marina Del Rey.

What advice do you have for other artists, up and coming or not?
My advice to all artists and upcoming as well: Keep doing what’s burning inside you to do as an artist. Don’t compromise to sell art…or you just sell your soul. Be patience and persistent. Follow your heart and keep your mind free from any type of bondage that would hinder your creativity.

What's the one thing you'd like to see in regards to the LB art scene?
More local artist represented by the local galleries without favoritism. Also, the coffee shops and wine bars giving more artists a showing space in their places of business and hosting an opening in their establishments.

I do personally know Shawn and his lovely wife Roberta and can say that not only is he a great artist whose work I connect with, they are both wonderful and warm people. As the Expo's press release says: "As he begins to work, he feels that he leaves a part of himself with each piece of artwork." I hope you'll get a chance to swing by the Expo this Friday night and show some love to them both. I know you'll be happy you did! #TheTruth, by the way any guesses on why I featured the particular piece at the top???? :)

For more information on the Long Beach Film Festival they are currently seeking additional help and if anyone would want to help flagship this for Long Beach are open to hear new ideas.

For more on Shawn and his artwork, check the URL's Sucka! :)

http://www.thejoyfulprocess.org
http://www.shawnkingabstractart.weebly.com