Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Terrance “erv” Ervin. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Terrance thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

In November 2024, I took a major leap by driving from Richmond, Virginia, to San Antonio, Texas, to fully pursue my art career. Since making that bold move, I’ve been featured in a magazine twice, participated in four art shows, and showcased my work at multiple markets across San Antonio, Austin, and Houston. I’m actively expanding my presence in the Texas art scene, having applied to become a featured artist in several Austin galleries while seeking similar opportunities in San Antonio and Houston. I’m also looking to put together my own art show soon this year. So far, this risk has paid off, and I’m excited to keep growing while I’m in Texas before heading back to Virginia.

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 self-taught visual artist from Richmond, Virginia. After playing football in college, I began painting again in my spare time as a hobby, which gradually turned into a second source of income. I started painting custom hats, denim jackets, purses, sweatsuits, and canvases, and after about three years of developing my style, I decided to pursue my art career full-time.

Today, I offer canvas paintings, custom ErvEyes hats, sweatsuits on occasion, and host paint parties, including sip and paints as well as puff and paints. For commission work, I focus on bringing clients’ ideas to life in ways they couldn’t have imagined. My personal concept pieces aim to capture emotion and nostalgia, taking viewers back to meaningful moments in life that deeply resonate.

I’m most proud of transforming an idea into a brand and career where I’ve connected with people across the U.S. on a creative level. For future collectors and fans you need to know when you collect an ErvEyes painting, you’re receiving a timeless piece designed to stir emotions far beyond just visual appeal—because the eyes are the window to the soul!

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

Society can support artists, creatives, and a thriving creative ecosystem in many ways, but one of the simplest and most impactful is sharing their work. Spreading the word whether through social media, word of mouth, or recommending artists to friends can make a significant difference. You never know which one of your followers will deeply resonate with an artist’s message or be searching for the exact services that a creator offers. Visibility leads to opportunity, and supporting creatives in this way helps build a stronger, more connected community where art can truly thrive.

We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?

I built my audience on social media by intentionally separating my art from my personal life. I created an instagram page just for my artwork and avoided cross posting it on my personal page until I had developed a core following people who supported my art for its creativity and message, not just personal connections. Beyond social media, I took a hands on approach by handing out hundreds of business cards that linked directly to my art page, making it easy for people I met at events and markets to stay connected and explore my work further. Consistency, quality content, and direct engagement were key to growing a genuine audience.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @ViewsFrumErvEyes
• Facebook: Erv Eyes Art
• Twitter: @ErvEyesArt

Image Credits

N/a