I would like to introduce you all to Bria Tyler! She is an artist, educator, and student. Recently, I received the opportunity to interview her! Check it out below!

What sparked your interest in creating art?

From a young age, I have always had an interest in art. Art of all types. The idea that amazing pieces of work are crafted and created by hand and simply start with an idea is so intriguing to me.

How long did it take for you to learn how to paint?

I’ve been doing art my entire life. However, I was mainly introduced to painting with acrylic paint. Recently, I have been working with oil paint, and I have only been working with oil paint for a year now. I would say that when it comes to art, an artist is constantly learning how to master their techniques and skills. So, although it’s only been a year for me, I believe I have a long way to go and will continue to learn about painting.

Your paintings are exquisite and beautiful. How would you describe the type of paintings you’ve created, and what message do you wish to convey?

My paintings fall into the surrealism category of painting. The message I would wish to convey to people who view my paintings is that black hair is beautiful. It can be in its natural state or in a protective style, and it’s still beautiful, professional, etc. I also want black people who view my artwork to feel connected to it and see themselves in my work. 

Out of all of your creations that you’ve created so far, which work of art is your favorite and why?

I am still in the process of building a collection of artwork I am proud to showcase. However, so far, my favorite painting has to be Majesty of Braids. That is my first oil painting, which I worked hours on. I felt like I put my literal blood, sweat, and tears into that painting. There are also things in that painting I would change, learn from, and apply to my other paintings. That painting started it all for me, and I am beyond grateful for it.

When you are in your creating zone, what is that process like? What feelings do you get from painting?

As an artist, sometimes comparison is your biggest enemy. I am still in the process of gaining confidence within myself as an artist, and when I am in my creative zone, all those negative thoughts disappear. When creating, if I have an idea, I have to trust myself that it will look okay. If I do it and I don’t like it, I have to trust myself that I can fix what I don’t like. It’s an overall process, but it’s fun, even if it might sound a bit stressful. Overall, once I start creating, it’s hard for me to stop.

What fellow artists have influenced you along your journey?

A few artists that have influenced me include Sonya Clark, Kehinde Wiley, and Ewa Juszkiewicz.

I relate so much to Sonya Clark and her works of art related to black hair. Kehinde Wiley’s paintings inspire me so much, and seeing his work gives me the inspiration that I can become a full-time artist simply through hard work and creating paintings. Ewa Juszkiewicz inspired how I created the style of my paintings. She too creates paintings that cover people’s faces. I just so happen to do it with black hair.

What is your ultimate goal when it comes to what you want to accomplish in the world of art?

My ultimate goal is to be a full-time artist. The idea of making artwork, something I love to do for a living, sounds like a dream, but I know it is not out of my reach.

When it comes to women and our women’s community, what would you like to see more of?

I would love to see more community groups for women, especially black women. More book clubs, art clubs, hiking groups, etc. For women—any type of group that helps to uplift women and build a community.

 

Share any websites, social media handles, and how we can connect with you and your work!

Instagram: @Briatyler.studio

Thank you so much Bria!