Today we’d like to introduce you to Devan Bridson.
Hi Devan, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Art has always been something I’ve been drawn to. My interests ranged from illustration, novels, movie sets, costumes, fashion, and just about anything creative as I was growing up and going through those formative years. I grew up in this small, farm town in central IL where time is moving pretty slowly. I love that about it, now. However, growing up there was a little challenging when you’re fantasizing about growing up to be a “starving artist”. I never wanted to be starving, but that was the only image of a successful artist that people thought was possible. So, I slowly conditioned myself into thinking I was okay with putting my creative brain to the side and chasing life paths in different directions since being a successful artist wasn’t possible.
Fast forward to my college years as a Chemical Engineering major and as you can imagine, I was miserable. I had many formative arguments with my family about changing paths and was able to convince everyone, including myself, that I wanted and could be successful with a degree in Fashion Design. You know, everyone needs clothes! I’ll work for Target, Prana, Eddie Bauer, etc. I mean the list of employers goes on and on, right? It’s a safe choice! I realized during my Senior Presentation of my own fashion collection that I didn’t fully enjoy this either.
Fashion Design was the compromise. It was practical and creative. I realized I’m an expert at convincing myself I’ll be okay with something even if it’s not what I really want. After taking a short internship in the field of Fashion that I quit only 2 months in, I made the decision to create my own art and somehow build a life around my own creative business.
This was a scary but exciting decision. I didn’t have any formal, artistic training. So, some of the greatest hurdles leading up to today have been put in front of me by myself. It has taken me a lot of time to be confident in the work I create and to feel that it’s worth some value. I decided that I would be proud of myself for literally chasing my dream and that I would become a sponge. I take in everything I can and am always learning and practicing so that I always see growth in myself and my business. As long as I can see growth, I’m so happy!
Now, I’ve had an official business under the name of Devan Bridson Illustrations for 1 year. I was planning to start the business the year that I moved here when the summer markets started up. However, I decided to move here just before COVID-19 shut everything down. So, last summer was my first time setting up an official shop at the Minneapolis Farmers Market and I’m so excited to start my second year with them soon! I set up at other markets sporadically too that I keep posted on my website. Since I’m so new, this is the best way for me to get out there and meet other creatives and show my work while I continue to grow!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
There have most definitely been struggles! I moved here in 2019 with the mindset of selling my work at the markets in the summer season. I built up an inventory of work and reserved about 10 booths to start the season off. Then, as we all know, COVID 19 hit. That caused everything to be canceled. That was a blow. I mean I went through a lot of hoops to decide to chase this dream and it was immediately shut down. Thank goodness, I’ve always been resilient. Also, I’m so stubborn. I won’t fail because people are waiting for me to.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My work is mixed media with a current focus on acrylic paints and inks. When looking through my work you’ll notice some reoccurring themes and subject matters. I am hugely inspired by the artistic work produced by the Japanese culture as well as anything within the natural world.
You’ll see the use of heavy brushstrokes, vertical abstract landscapes, and the use of color in playful ways.
I try to create this sense of wonder in my pieces that get you to stop and think. Either you’re staring at this abstract piece and taking in each of the colors and layering of textures or you’re wondering where that character is going. What is about to happen here?
This is what helps to set me apart. It’s the specific way that I wonder about the world around us and within us!
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
I made the decision and started showing my work before I felt anywhere near ready.
I made a handful of card-sized pieces, took them to office depot, and made 5 prints of each. I then set up the tiniest table at the Famer’s Market back home in the larger town over. There I was able to see people’s reactions to my work in person. It’s a casual setting where people are pretty genuine, and it boosted my confidence in myself exponentially.
I don’t think any of us give ourselves enough credit. The world of social media keeps us so aware of the world-class experts in our fields and it can make our dreams feel impossible. People appreciate all levels of art, remember that.
Mental strength is so important. You have to believe in yourself more than anyone else. You have to hype up your progress and work, more than anyone else. You may not survive if you don’t.
Contact Info:
- Email: devan.b04@gmail.com
- Website: devanbridson.com
- Instagram: @devanbridson
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCho_EnUaQ5ApNL4OTK8TAVQ
