We recently connected with Frederick” Rootman.” Woods and have shared our conversation below.
Frederick” Rootman.”, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?
I remember being in elementary school and wanting to be the next Leonardo da Vinci. My teachers supported my efforts as I practiced copying the great artist`s work, but It wasn`t until my mid-thirties that I decided to stop giving away my art and become a professional artist.
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.
Over the years, I experimented with many artistic genres and styles. I am primarily self-taught, except for some art classes in school and a few college courses. Initially, I concentrated on still life, landscapes, and African portraits. Then my work began to evolve more abstractly, and I started combining different styles and techniques. In high school, I received the nickname, Rootman for playing defensive tackle, which fit the artwork I was doing then. The name stuck, but now it is more about my deep spiritual connection with the earth’s energy and nature. My art reflects this connection with spirit; it evokes a kind of soulfulness and emotions that have grown deeper with my spiritual growth. I like telling stories and sharing that vision on canvas.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
My art intends to traverse a course that mimics life`s mysteries as well as life`s movements. The naturally occurring designs awaken that curiosity of wanting to understand and stimulate the storyteller in yourself. I sincerely hope that when you view my art, you and I share a moment that reflects on the beauty of discovery and why I say, “I tell stories on canvas,”
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The inspiration for my paintings comes from naturally occurring people`s emotions and expressions and my connection to the spiritual world. I feel more connected sitting in front of a canvas at midnight, waiting for the canvas to speak to me.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://rootmanart.com
- Instagram: woods_frederick
- Facebook: Frederick Woods
- Linkedin: Fred Woods
- Youtube: @rootingwithin