We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Scott Jeffries. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Scott below.

Scott, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

Art for me has been a lifetime of learning. I think I was lucky to be naturally intuitive and observant. I didn’t go to art school and and I am grateful that my style and aesthetic does not rely on precision and perfection. I paint from the soul not some formula. My Grandmother was an an artist and I draw a lot inspirati0n from her. My formal education never included art. My college degree is in Political Science and I went to Law School after that but I always found myself fascinated by artist…paintings and sculptures. I think it would have been a mistake for me to try to rush the organic process of developing a style of my own. Essential skills I have are a combination of patience and confidence. I can make a decision when a painting is completed. I am a firm believer that perfectionism is the biggest obstacle for some artist because we can’t make a decision on finality. I am also very willing and open to criticism and direction from my fellow artists. I learn so much by watching and listening and also am willing to share my experiences of failure and success. The main obstacle in my life, in all areas, has been my ego. Thinking I know better has more often than not been a mistake.

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?

As I said, I began painting as a young man inspired by my Grandmother Fannie Richards in New York City. I am self- taught. I went to the University of Pittsburgh on an athletic scholarship and achieved All-American recognition as a swimmer. I graduated from Pittsburgh’s School of Law in 1992. I maintained a Legal practice in Philadelphia as a litigation attorney for a variety of clients including major felony criminal defendants to physicians in medical malpractice cases. But at my core, Iam an artist and when I gave up the law for painting it was the best decision of my life

As an artist, I am a painter and sculptor. I work in acrylics, wood, paper mache and found objects (aka garbage). I have collectors throughout the United States. In 2016 I was named one the Top Ten Visual Artist in Palm Beach and have been building momentum ever since. I also have a line of hand painted clothes which are quite popular.

I do accept commissions from clients and collectors which I love. My process is that it is a collaboration between us both so we create art with meaning and personal substance behind it for them to have for a lifetime. I want the client to be involved so they can have an experience and be part of the story of the painting. Also there are no surprises and the client is getting exactly what they want as they are part of the process.

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

I love being able to stand in front of a blank canvas and just GO!! Imagination is a wonderful thing and as an artist to see my thoughts and dreams manifest into themselves into real, tangible things that can be seen an held and often appreciated. Over time its been rewarding because I’ve been able to use my imagination to support myself with a comfortable lifestyle. Its also special to have the mindset that if I keep doing this the possibilities are endless. I am grateful that I now have the time and space to create.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

The most important thing is to be consistent. I try not to get caught up in the number of of likes or views. You never know who that ONE person is that may see a post that can have an impact on your day, week, year or LIFE!!

Contact Info:

• Website: scottyjart.com
• Instagram: @scottart and @out_back_gallery
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scottyjart
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-jeffries-0381b545/

Image Credits
Branden Connelley