Today we’d like to introduce you to Adam Turner.
Hi Adam, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started drawing when I was very young, “as soon as I could hold a pencil,” as many say. That’s true of me as well. It was always clear what my path was going to be. Generally, it would involve a drawing. I went to college for it and got my first job as a graphic designer/illustrator as a sophomore in college. Since then, I’ve made a career in graphic design and illustration. Recently, I decided to return to my roots in traditional media. I began oil painting late last year, and it’s been quite a ride in that short time. I’m actively painting every day and selling paintings as I go. I’ve built up a website storefront and am selling originals and prints. I still need to narrow my scope to one subject matter (if ever), and I rotate through figurative/gestural paintings of live models and photographs; I do a lot of stylized wildlife and am just now getting into landscapes. I’ll have my first show shortly and have been accepted to several art fairs.
Please talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned. Looking back, has it been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I really can’t complain. I had my plan when I was young, and I followed my plan. I started as a graphic designer and made my way through the different stages of the ladder,’ so to speak. I was able to be a Graphic Designer, Illustrator, Assistant Art Director, Art Director, Communications Director, and finally, Creative Director. The most challenging part has been transitioning from the ‘corporate’ world and clients to the traditional media and promoting my art. Our finances have taken a hit during this transition, and we’re putting a lot of faith in its potential. However, I’m still holding on to some business relationships and doing digital illustration as a safety net. Still, I also value those relationships that are years and years in the making. I’m not quite ready to let go of those.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My direction now is primarily oil on canvas. My current focus is figurative paintings, but I also enjoy wildlife (specifically birds) and landscapes. But, my strength is figurative. All the mediums I work in (including snow. I’m a competitive snow sculptor in the winters) have a vital symbolic element. All of my sculptures, snow and clay, are of human figures or animals in dynamic motion. Most paintings capture the character and a story, even with the animals and landscapes. Because of my background in illustration, the story is significant to me. I want people to relate to what they see and connect to that scenario at some level. One other element that shows up in my paintings is pops of color. For example, I often pull intense purples and blues into my shadows.
What matters most to you? Why?
Connection. Ultimately, everything I do comes back to connection. I was big into team sports when I was younger, and as I worked through my career, I also enjoyed working with others. Even now, the illustration work I enjoy the most is with clients I consider my ‘team’ (or, more accurately, I’m on their team). With snow sculpting, I love interacting with all the people who stop by and ask questions, like with murals and painting competitions. With my oil painting, I love interacting with those who commission pieces or purchase my existing paintings and prints. That connection is everything.
Pricing:
- 2′ x 3′ original oil painting starting price – $1200
- prints – various sizes up to 12″ x 18″ – all under $100
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.adamturnervisuals.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adamturnervisuals
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adamturnervisuals
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamturnervisuals/
