Today we’d like to introduce you to Dimitri Stevens.
Hi Dimitri, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Art, for me, started as a hobby. I’d often make drawings of my friends as a kid, but in the way, every kid draws. Art-related homework often led me to be the center of attention in class ranging from creative writing, book illustrations, science projects, and map drawings. Seeing that I could focus so well on creative projects, I was encouraged to submit to competitions, and every time I applied myself, I was successful. I went on to submit 2 portfolios to Memphis College of Art and received a pretty good scholarship to attend the school in Overton Park in 2011. In high school, There was a Jewelry shop Named “The Mona Lisa” in Somerville, TN, owned by a couple that was Memphis College of Art Allums, and they showed me the importance of work ethic, presentation, and documentation. The artist would also give me paint and supplies, which gave me a good enough portfolio. I was predominately self-taught and not very serious about art, but a few mentors pulled me aside and encouraged me to apply myself. I also had a few friends interested in being professional artists who also attended MCA. Art started as a hobby, and I made it into a career. As I learn, unlearn, and improve, I keep in mind to apply myself and maintain a good work ethic to keep moving forward.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been smooth?
For most of my twenties, I took a lot of commissions, a lot of them private, which didn’t add much to my portfolio. So I often had no inventory. I was not very educated on the importance of applying for grants and couldn’t afford to do artwork as I did in school. The best thing I know now is to apply for opportunities that suit you and take reasonable commissions. My biggest obstacle is that I like to work large, and I’m in a fairly rectangular format, and the work does not translate well on social media. To remedy that, I post walls of art together in salon style.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a mixed-media artist. I make paintings on canvas and paper of various subjects ranging from minimal abstraction to realistic portraits. I face obstacles head-on to try and strengthen my work, but I rely heavily on improvisation and hard work. A painting is done in an hour, sometimes 2 months. I work on about 5 paintings at a time, usually with a big T.V. In front of me, and I like my studio hot. I can’t say I have too much desire to be in control when making artwork; just comfortable. My biggest accomplishment as an artist is to be multifaceted and deliver the same quality across the board, no matter what style or subject I approach.
What matters most to you? Why?
I care a lot about family. It’s my upbringing; It’s often a theme in my abstract work. My immediate family alone is huge, and we get along so well. It’s truly a blessing, and I know it to have 8 siblings, 13 nieces and nephews, and a cat.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @DimitriStevens
