Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Durrell Hunter. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Durrell, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.

I’ve been drawing since I was a child. Throughout my early years people knew I was an artist and I was told I was good at it. After graduating from high school, my creativity would come to a halt. I wasn’t sketching anymore, learning any new techniques, or even learning about art. This went on for years. A close friend of mine would come over to my home one day and start talking about artist he follows on instagram. He starts talking to me about how he’s drawing again and posting pics and I should do the same. We would then go to an art show. The work was great and I’m able to see artists showing and selling their work. This did inspire me to start drawing again. What I didn’t expect was to start painting. I didn’t expect to love painting. I asked myself how did I never paint before? What I realized was it didn’t even matter, I’m painting now. Once I developed this skill and started showing my painting and the feedback I was getting I knew I had to pursue my dream of living off my work. Anytime spent outside of painting, or doing things to inspire my work was a waste of time. I finally knew what my passion and purpose was. This has now fueled my dream of being a full time artist.

Durrell, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’ve been able to create drawing etc since I was a child. It wasn’t until later in life that I understood why I had these skills. I’m Shinnecock Indian. Our tribal lands are located in Southampton NY. As an artist, and being a member of a Native American tribe I feel like telling our story in my time is what my art should revolve around. This inspires me to paint member from my tribe, or challenges that my tribe is facing in real time. I’d like to think it keeps my people relevant. The original people of the americas are still here. My art will help that not be forgotten. Native American, indigenous Americans etc, don’t receive recognition in today’s world. As an artist I can help change that with my art. I dabble in abstract and landscape work as well, but painting my people is where I want the focus point of my work.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Once I knew I wanted to pursue my fine art career displaying and selling my work, I quit my job so I can focus on getting better. Not only did I quit my job but I bought a newer smaller car so I could drive for uber to have some income. It was tough, but I was happy. I was meeting people and having conversations about what I was doing, why I’m doing it, and how it was working out so far. Times would get tough and I may have to drive all day to make some money but I still had the opportunity to talk to people that were open to talk. One night in particular I was thinking I made a mistake and should stop. Just get a job and leave this dream behind. But on that night I met someone who invited me to their home to see their art collection and on that night they collected two pieces from me. At the time it was the most I had ever sold a piece for. That spoke volumes into me and I had to keep going. I told myself I’m never going to stop seeking this for myself. I can withstand the struggle until it produces.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

Art and fear….this book is like a bible for me as an artist. I think all creatives should have this book.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @n_haleart