We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful David Cericola. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with David below.
David , thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?
I have developed resilience from the challenges that I have had in life. This is especially true when it comes to my art. I’ve always been interested in trying to express myself through art. I tried many different mediums such as watercolors, acrylics, and oil paintings, and time after time, I was rejected for various reasons. Being told, “no, we cannot accept your work at this time” is hard to take. At times, I felt like I would never get accepted, but I continued to produce my work. Eventually, I tried three dimensional art and started wood sculpting. This work was also rejected at times, but I continued to create. Now, my work is in several galleries and people collecting my carvings. I always felt that if you keep on trying, you will find success.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I was born in New Mexico and grew up in Santa Fe. At the age of 19, I moved to South Florida and eventually enrolled in the local ironworkers apprenticeship program. I spent 43 years in this field, working my way up from being a journeymen ironworker to a superintendent and project manager. Throughout this time, I always pursued my passion to create art. Through many years and different mediums, I finally found my niche with woodcarving. I have created dozens of pieces, mainly of birds in their natural habitats, that I find especially beautiful. Many times, people mistake my work for taxidermy.
When I retired, I was able to fulfill my passion to be a full-time artist. My work is now shown in Marin Feather Fine Art Gallery in Santa Fe, Wallace-Burke Fine Jewelry and Collectibles in Homewood, Alabama, and the Rivers Edge Gallery in Scottsboro, Alabama. I also have clients who reach out to me personally for commissioned pieces.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, my time working in the construction industry had a great impact on my art. You start with an idea or task, whether it’s constructing a multi-story steel building or sitting down to do a sketch. The completion of the idea or a task is the end game, which is similar to creating a new carving. I also believe that getting feedback—whether pro or con—on your work is very important. Being around other artists, sharing ideas, and gaining inspiration is also valuable. Always try to be openminded and share what you are feeling. And remember that when you are creating something, that there will be a point when you will feel like what you are doing will not work. This is the point where you have to force yourself to continue on until you see the work take shape.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
My wife, Donna, has always helped me through tough challenges. It is so important to have someone to give me honest feedback and the necessary push I have needed at times to continue my work. Her opinions and perspective of my art is invaluable.
Contact Info:
- Facebook: David Cericola Artist
- Other: [email protected]
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