We were lucky to catch up with Cliff Powell recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Cliff thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Do you wish you had waited to pursue your creative career or do you wish you had started sooner?

This is a tough one. Creativity has always been a constant in my life, even during my career in construction, architecture, and real estate development, where problem-solving and design demanded imaginative thinking. However, when it comes to painting, I do wish I had discovered and pursued this talent earlier. That said, there’s a paradox here: if I had started back then, would I be as passionate about it now? Painting became a form of escape and catharsis from corporate life, and perhaps that timing was exactly what I needed to ignite my passion. So, while it’s tempting to wonder about an earlier start, I believe the journey unfolded as it should.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m a contemporary surrealist passionate about bringing stories and other worldly visions to life on canvas. From an early age, I was immersed in the arts—drawing, painting, and creating music. My journey to becoming a professional artist has been unconventional, shaped by diverse roles as a musician, general contractor, interior and architectural designer, and real estate developer. Each experience has influenced my perspective, from the structural sensibility of design to the emotional storytelling of music, enriching my creative process.

What sets my work apart is its foundation in allegory and symbolism, exploring universal themes that connect with the human experience. My style is “a juxtaposition of the raw and refined™,” where the gritty and polished converge to tell stories that resonate. What I’m most proud of is the connection my work fosters—when someone finds their own story reflected in my art, it’s an incredibly rewarding experience.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

Society can best support artists and a thriving creative ecosystem by actively engaging with and advocating for the arts. For example, in 2024, Florida’s governor cut $32 million from the 2025 arts and culture budget, a decision that affects hundreds of organizations across the state—children’s choruses, opera houses, symphonies, theaters, zoological societies, cultural councils, and more. These cuts highlight the need for stronger public advocacy for the arts.

Supporting the arts doesn’t always have to be financial. Attending events, engaging with artists, and showing genuine interest can make a world of difference. That said, purchasing original art or attending a local band’s concert or performance is an invaluable investment. These gestures not only sustain artists but also inspire them to continue creating and refining their craft, contributing to a more vibrant and beautiful world.

Introducing children to the arts is equally vital. Over the years, school curricula in the U.S. have shifted away from the arts to focus on core subjects, despite overwhelming evidence of the arts’ benefits. According to Americans for the Arts, children who participate regularly in the arts—just three hours a day, three times a week—are four times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement, participate in STEM activities, or win awards for writing. By fostering a love for the arts early on, we can cultivate creativity, critical thinking, and innovation in future generations.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

World domination! On a more serious note, my goal is to create art that makes a meaningful and positive impact on people’s lives. I strive to tell compelling stories through my paintings, evoking the sense of wonder and imagination we often associate with childhood or stirring feelings of nostalgia. I hope my work connects viewers to deeper philosophies or emotions, sparking introspection or joy.

Beyond personal expression, I also aim for my art to inspire and support philanthropic endeavors, contributing to causes that matter. At the heart of my creative journey is a commitment to growth—constantly improving, embracing challenges, and discovering new ways to learn and evolve. For me, creativity is about pushing boundaries and finding innovative ways to connect with others.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.cliffpowellart.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cliffpowellart/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CliffPowellArt/

Image Credits

James Tu