We recently connected with Al Sauls and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Al thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you share a story about the kindest thing someone has done for you and why it mattered so much or was so meaningful to you?

The kindest thing anyone has ever done for me was to tell me the truth. I was a young artist full of bright hopes and ambitions, but I might have been too conscientious about the work I was producing at the time. When it was time to critique my work, my teacher, Bill, sat us all in a circle and had us one by one explain our painting. This was high school, so you get many awkward images with even more awkward stories. When it was my time I held my image of my girlfriend high and showed it proudly to the class. The students showed amazement at the detail of the work. The teacher looked with a blank stare and said something is missing, I said, ” What could be missing? Bill pointed to the eyes of the painting. She doesn’t connect with the viewer. That’s the most important thing: the art connects with the viewer. I was ashamed, and you could see it on my face. He quickly said you will need to take criticism like you take compliments. It was the nicest thing anyone had told me because it was the truth.

Al , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am Al Sauls, and I specialize in icons and Sacred Imagery. I have been an artist for over 15 years now, and I have learned all aspects of the business. I frame my own works. I handle marketing and branding for my brand. My art is a testament to my strong Catholic faith. I hope to save souls with paint and a brush. It is my calling.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being a creative is the love you receive from customers once a project is complete. If the customer really likes the work you produced, it shows, and it is the best feeling for an artist.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

In my opinion, what society should do to best support artists is give them the resources they need to express themselves fully. funding, so they are not worried about finding ways to fund their projects. Also, enough galleries for the proper display of the art. Many other factors would help artists become successful, but these two factors are the most important to implement for the success of the artist.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.sacredartlivegallery,com
• Instagram: @iconsofalsauls