We recently connected with Barney Levitt and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Barney, we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?
I’ve drawn and painted since I was old enough to scribble on my parents dining room walls. When I entered college as an art major, feedback from my art professors boosted my esteem. Post college, I still dabbled in the arts, but it wasn’t until I was accepted into the prestigious Copley Society of Art in Boston, that my art career took off. Being a juried member of this highly competitive organization really gave me the confidence I needed to move forward.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I was given my first set of oil paints and easel when I was about 12 years old. The gifts were from an Aunt who was also an artist, and she saw great potential in my drawing capabilities.
I graduated with a Fine Arts Degree from S.U.N.Y at Oswego, but then bounced around in my early twenties and ended up in Steamboat Springs, CO as a ski instructor. From there I eventually found my way to Boston and became a member of the Copley Society of Art.
I am wholly dedicated to creating art. I’m a realist oil painter but my work is often whimsical in nature with elements of humor. There’s usually a strong narrative element to my work. I am very active in the New England art scene and I’m represented by a number of galleries. I’ll have a number of solo shows in 2024, including at The Stewart Clifford Gallery, and Gallery Antonia. I’ll also have a solo show at the end of the year at The Wellesley Free Library. I have paintings year-round at the Copley Society of Art in the Members’ Small Works Show.
Creating art is as natural to me as breathing. I hope I do both for a long time to come.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
I think my ability to focus intensely on the project at hand, my attention to detail, and my perfectionism, helped guide me and were great building blocks in my pursuit of an art career. However, it took me awhile to recognize that creating art and ‘making a living’ were not mutually exclusive. I think it’s imperative to do what you love, though this sounds like a cliche. Success will come if you’re passionate about something and persevere. In the arts you must take risks, develop a thick skin, and face rejection bravely and with determination to succeed. I’ve found that getting my art out into the public eye requires using all resources available; joining local art organizations, showing work in libraries, restaurants, or any other community venue that’s willing to show your work. Get involved in Open Studio events. Reach out to gallery owners, many of which have submission guidelines. It takes hard work and perseverance.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
Most artists I know, despite their talent, lack the marketing skills to push their art forward and make a sustainable living. I would love to connect with someone who has great marketing skills as well as having exposure to the art world. Understanding social platforms, their algorithms, and how to succeed in marketing art in alternative venues to traditional galleries.
I can be contacted via e-mail: [email protected] or through my website: www.barneylevitt.com
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.barneylevitt.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barneylevittfineart/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/barney.levitt
