We were lucky to catch up with Zeek Taylor recently and have shared our conversation below.
Zeek, so great to have you with us and thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts with the community. So, let’s jump into something that stops so many people from going after their dreams – haters, nay-sayers, etc. We’d love to hear about how you dealt with that and persisted on your path.
Although I have a loyal and large support system, there have been haters and naysayers who have been critical and begrudge any success that has come my way. I believe that negative reactions toward me often stem from “sour grapes,” a term often used to define jealousy. What those that have been against me do not know, is that they have aided me in advancing my career as an artist and as an author. In response to them and rather than being discouraged or upset by their negativity, I take on an “I’ll show you” attitude and strive to be even better. Ironically, I guess I should thank them for making me better.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am an award-winning visual artist who works in watercolor and acrylics. I am the recipient of the Arkansas Governor’s Arts Award for Lifetime Achievement, and my paintings have hung in the Arkansas Governor’s Mansion. In 2018, I received the “Idle Class Magazine” Black Apple Legacy Award. My work has been displayed on five occasions in the Arkansas Arts Center, three times in the prestigious Delta Exhibition, and two times in the International Toys Designed by Artists Exhibition. I have earned several “Best of Show” awards. Recently, a piece of my art has been included in the permanent collection of the Art Museum of Eureka Springs (AR.)
Besides my work in the visual arts, I am also a storyteller and writer. I have performed on the National Public Radio show “Tales from the South,” and my stories were heard by more than 130 million listeners worldwide. A StoryCorps interview with me is on file in the Library of Congress, and a segment of the interview aired on NPR’s Morning Edition. I gave a TedX talk in Bentonville, AR, and I cohost “Homegrown Tales,” a live storytelling show. I am the author of three self-published books: Chimps Having Fun, “Out of the Delta,” and “Out of the Delta II.” My two “Delta” books have recently been published by Sandy Springs Press in one volume titled, “Out of the Delta the Anthology.” I have also done film work as an actor and have appeared in commercials, a short film, and a full-length feature film. I recently signed with Stage 28 Talent Casting. I live and maintain an art studio in Eureka Springs, Arkansas.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
I believe that the desire to continue pursuing knowledge and trying new things, no matter my age, has helped me grow as an artist. One is never too old to learn, and I’m constantly exploring new techniques to better my art and to keep things exciting. It’s important to not get in a rut. I’ve spent a great deal of time studying “how-to” books and studying art history. When advising young artists on advancing their careers, I think of the old joke that asks, “How do you get to Carnegie Hall?” The answer to the question is, “Practice, practice, practice.” That answer is the same for the question, “How do I become a successful artist?” I advise all artists to create art every day, even if for a few minutes. And here is the advice that most artists do not want to hear: You have to market your work. Your work may be fantastic, but if you do not get it “out there” it will remain stacked in your studio. Enter shows and juried exhibitions. Work social media. It’s free. And perhaps most important, do not let a “No” discourage you. Unfortunately, rejection happens in life and often in the arts. Be determined. Keep looking for the “yeses.” They are out there.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
I had wonderful parents who supported me and encouraged me in my pursuit of the arts. Even though neither parent worked in the arts or even understood what that meant, they told me to “go for it.” They only wanted me to be happy. They succeeded. My wish for all budding artists, really all young folks pursuing a dream, is that they have parents like I was fortunate to have when I was young.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.zeektaylor.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zeektaylor/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zeek.taylor
