Revery shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Good morning Revery, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
Painting of course! Reading also has the same effect for me as well. Both endeavors give me the same sensation of stepping out of time and my body, in an almost dreamlike fashion. I liken the flow state to those time when you are driving and somehow made your way home but don’t remember any specifics about the trip.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a visual artist currently based in Denver though I’ve painted in many places. My work primarily revolves around murals and oil paintings that mix human and nature elements. As my artist name “Revery” suggests, a lot of my pieces explore the intersection between reality and fantasy creating a surrealism that feels dreamy. I tend to explore themes based around my struggles with health, my experiences as a woman, and connections to others.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
Most people who know me now would be shocked to learn I was a cripplingly shy and introverted kid. Up until around 5th grade I couldn’t look people in the eye and would cry if I garnered any attention. I think what shifted that for me was the power that comes from making people laugh. I have always loved comedy and have early memories of feeling the satisfaction of giving others joy. Since then I identify as extremely extroverted and personable and still now use humor and art to find that positive connection between other people.
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
A lot of my art and life changed after I got really sick. I have never been a healthy person, even since childhood but about 6 years ago I started having a myriad of life threatening symptoms and chronic pain. I still have not been able to find relief or the source of these issues and it has definitely changed my perspective and the way I operate. Experiencing something like that can never truly be healed but can be channeled into my work and into a fearlessness in the way I live. My paintings often feature women in images of strength instead of struggle now, and I encourage people not to waste time being unhappy.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? How do you differentiate between fads and real foundational shifts?
In my world, fads like AI or NFTs or even stylistic crazes come and go so often that it’s easy for both the artists and the audience to get bogged down by what seems financially fruitful or trendy. My compass for what really moves the needle or resonates with importance is the “why” of what is being created. In my opinion the art that is most effective and impactful is done because someone had something to say, an emotion to express or a new organic idea.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: When have you had to bet the company?
I saved up about ten years of bartending and odd jobs before I went full time as an artist and even then it was a huge financial and personal risk. I think when you are self employed and in a field so unstable as art you are “betting the company” every year. There are no two years, months, or even days that are the same in this job and you need to come to terms with the ups and downs that inherently come with it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.reveryart.com
- Instagram: @reveryart
