We recently connected with Will Hawk and have shared our conversation below.

Will, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

The most meaningful project I’ve worked on has to be the “Misted Collection.” This collection is deeply inspired by resilience and beauty found during life’s adversities. It features a mesmerizing interplay of vibrant colors and delicate mist, symbolizing the strength and grace that emerge from challenging times.

This collection is not just about art but also about capturing the profound emotional and spiritual journey of overcoming hardships. It reflects my faith and my ability to translate life’s struggles into something visually stunning and uplifting. This project is meaningful because it resonates with universal themes of hope, perseverance, and the beauty that can arise from adversity, making it a source of inspiration for many.

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 contemporary realism painter with work that bridges vibrant artistry with profound meaning. Inspired by my faith in God, the intricate beauty of nature, and the resilience of the human spirit, My creations go far beyond the canvas, with intentions of touching hearts and minds.

My artistic journey began in my youth, I have strong memories of sitting on my Dad’s lap while he sketched 100 year old farms in rural New York, with a mechanical pencil. Art was a common theme with my siblings and I, as we spent most days drawing and painting together. We challenged each other, and grew together with dreams of turning our interest into a career. Now, 30 years later, art is still an incredible way we connect and walk through life together.

Through the years & along the way I’ve acquired a deep appreciation for the small, often-overlooked details in life—like the elegance of a dew drop on the petal of a flower. This fascination grew into a passion for creating art that tells stories, evokes emotions, and celebrates the divine artistry present in the everyday. Over time, this passion developed into a craft that emphasizes precision, vibrant color, and, above all, authenticity.

Several factors make My work stand out in the world of contemporary realism:

– Faith-Inspired Creativity: Guided by My spiritual beliefs, I infuse my work with themes of grace, hope, and renewal that resonates on a deeper level.

– Attention to Detail: My dedication to meticulous craftsmanship ensures that every piece is a true masterpiece.

– Connection to Life’s Journey: Whether reflecting the beauty of nature or the triumph of perseverance, My artworks tell stories that uplift and inspire.

– Artistic Versatility: From tight realism to looser, expressionist styles, I am not afraid to explore and innovate within my craft.

What I am Most Proud Of

Among my collections, I consider the **”Misted Collection”** one of his most meaningful achievements. Inspired by the resilience and beauty discovered through life’s challenges, these pieces evoke a sense of hope and strength, making them deeply personal to both ME and MY audience.

For fans, followers, or clients, My work represents the perfect blend of technical skill and emotional depth. My art celebrates individuality, faith, and the human spirit in colors and forms that stay with you long after you’ve seen them. Whether you’re looking for a custom commission or a piece from one of my signature collections, you’ll find that my passion and faith shine through in every brushstroke.

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

Connection! On every level, connecting.

First, I am a creator that creates the beauty of creation that was created by the Creator. Time at the canvas is time I spend in prayer talking to God.

Second, connecting with other artists. It’s a wild thing we get to do (pour out our hearts creatively and then sell it). Finding other creatives that see the world in different and wonderful ways is very encouraging.

Third, connecting with collectors. When people are enamored with a creation, it’s fulfilling in ways that are hard to explain. It never gets old. It’s an extension of the soul that will take residence in far away lands for generations.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

I moved to San Diego, CA from Upstate New York when I was 20 years old. Before I started the venture cross-country, I was hired by an artist firm that was painting a local restaurant downtown SD. I rushed to make it in three days (crazy, I know), because this was my “BIG BREAK”!

I made it to the meeting spot ahead of schedule, still weary from the road (driving 17 hours per day was exhausting). I met with the gal that hired me only to find out, SHE HIRED SOMEONE ELSE DURING THE 3 DAYS I WAS ON THE ROAD. WHAT?! Wait a minute, back up! I drove over 3000 miles for this job, I don’t have a back-up plan! I spent everything I had to get here.

“SORRY, I need to get back to work” was the last thing I heard her say.

So, what BEGAN as my “BIG BREAK”, turned into an absolute disaster. I was filled with bitterness and fury. Warranted for sure. BUT, what I did next would change the trajectory of the rest of my life to present day. I went to work….

I found a job, and because of that job, I met the Woman that I would later call my Wife. God knew that my dream was to become a full-time artist, but He said “I have something better for you.” I had to go through some tough life at first. Working a variety jobs and trades to pay the bills. I put my art on hold for over a decade.
During which, I eventually started my first business (then 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th). This experience allowed me the resources, organization, integrity and endurance to pursue the ART dream.

The reason I’m telling this story is to encourage. Sometimes we NEED to go through things to build character and endurance before we can truly be prepared and respect the gift/talent/dream we’ve been given. Waiting wasn’t my ideal method, but it brought so many other blessings that I had never considered.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.willhawkart.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willhawk_art
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/willhawkart/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wilbur-hawk-iii/
• Twitter: https://x.com/willhawk_art
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@WillHawkArt