We were lucky to catch up with Quantez Harper recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Quantez, thanks for joining us today. One of the toughest things about progressing in your creative career is that there are almost always unexpected problems that come up – problems that you often can’t read about in advance, can’t prepare for, etc. Have you had such and experience and if so, can you tell us the story of one of those unexpected problems you’ve encountered?

I was recently commissioned for an exterior art installation at a local school. After a few meetings and finalizing the idea with a 3D model my first big project started. This is where the first issue appeared, equipment. As I began to gather things I realized the additional items and heavy-duty equipment I was going to need in order to pull this off with a great level of craftsmanship. I knew I had the ability to complete the project but I only had 10% of the equipment. Renting or buying the tools was an option but that meant using contingency funds and I wanted to avoid that if possible. Thankfully, I was able to borrow most of the things from a neighbor. Later this neighbor would say that he was “amazed by the number of people with talent and vision who simply do not have equipment”. I worked over 100 hours on this piece. I anticipated the build would take no longer than 7 weeks. Multiple days of rain forced me inside as I worked late nights to finish the project before a family vacation. At last, I was finished. It took 9 weeks but I was so proud of the work I had accomplished. My largest “canvas”, most paint used, most hours worked and most subjects. I was stunned at how it all came together. During the demolition, I noticed that some of the existing structures I was to fasten the installation to, were in various stages of decay. I approached the owner and voiced my concern. The following week, I was told the project would be canceled. I was devastated! I poured so much energy, time, and dedication into it only to not be seen at all. The problem was twofold. I did not anticipate being responsible for surveying the existing structure. I also did not anticipate not completing the project. Out of those problems come learning lessons. In the future, I will ensure any existing surface that will be a part of any work is ideal and ask to survey things before starting. I will also add a clause to the contract to ensure I am compensated fairly if someone backs out of a deal.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I create high-quality visual art for all to see and enjoy. For those seeking art that jumps off the canvas, pulls at your core, and embraces, my art is for you. I believe that a space cannot reach its full potential unless there are creative works to be experienced. My art provides that.
What sets me apart is my approach. In a world where artists are told to focus on one subject, one medium, or one style, I choose to be different. Although I work primarily with acrylic paints, I am not afraid to leave my comfort zone. I seize inspiration at every moment from all of God’s creation and my work reflects that.

I was blessed with a gift that for the longest time I could not accept. Art and creating have always played a role in my life.  As a child, I was not drawn to creating but always has a fascination with colors. As a teenager, I discovered graphite drawing as a means to escape. At the time, purely drawing out of boredom. That quickly blossomed into an intense relationship with pencil and paper. After years of honing my skills and thousands of hours of cramped hands, I discovered and fell deeply in love with the freedom and raw creativity of abstract painting. Recently I have challenged myself to embark on the journey of realism, utilizing palette knives as my tool of choice.

Outside of being a father and a husband, the thing I am most proud of is my service to the U.S. I have spent 15 years as a combat medic with 3 tours overseas. Not only was I able to help others and save lives, but I made connections with people around the world that gave to me more than I ever could give to them and I will be grateful forever.

I want people to know that I am for them. My art imitates life in many different ways but the main thing I try to reveal is that we all are connected.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The act of creating itself is beyond rewarding. During the infant stages of a work of art, there are countless possibilities to reach the desired look. This stage can be never-ending if you are not careful, but it is always an exhale moment for me because I am able to get the idea out of my head and onto paper. When I start on a piece, the beginning tends to be the second most exciting. Having a good idea of where I’m wanting to go but not knowing how I’m going to get there. The feeling of putting paint on the canvas for the first time fills me with a great amount of fear and anxiety but also joy and comfort. Throughout the duration of the work I will experience these feelings and more until I am complete. The first time I step back and take in a completed work, I am always taken back. There are only a few things more rewarding than knowing that you created something and have that thing look better than you ever could have imagined but also knowing that you could have done better.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

I think people need to realize support can be many different things. Buying is the best, but not the only option. Ask about payment plans if the work is out of your budget. If you do not want to buy, donate. Any amount would be appreciated – art supplies are expensive. In the digital age, we are in, sharing can be a lot. You never know who is watching. Re-post things, share their website or content without them asking. If they do ask, follow through. Give words of encouragement. Mentor if you can. If you see a need, try and meet it or connect them with someone you believe can help. Talk about them to others. Attend exhibitions they are featured in. Lastly, just ask. Ask what you can do for them. The answer might surprise you.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://harperartanddesign.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harper_artand_design/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HarperArtCo
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtaFac0YL59ORn7W9M6sFeA