Today we’d like to introduce you to Justin Wheatley.
Hi Justin, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I wanted to be an artist ever since I was a child. When I was in junior high, I decided to be an art teacher as well. After getting a fine art degree with an education certificate at Utah State University, I got a job teaching high school and started selling artwork at the Salt Lake City farmer’s market. That was nearly 20 years ago. I just kept at it gradually gained a footing in the local art scene. A couple of local galleries picked me up and I have since expanded to nine galleries across the country.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
One of my favorite quotes is from artist Chuck Close. He said “Inspiration is for amateurs. The rest of us just show up and get to work.” I am a firm believer that if you show up and get to work, and never stop working, you will find success in what you are doing.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I work primarily with acrylic paint, though I also do oil and mixed media work. I love to paint urban landscapes – buildings, street scenes, etc.
I am most proud of being able to continue to teach high school while having success as an artist as well. I would say this also sets me apart from a lot of artists.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Work ethic is important. Work work work.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://justinwheatley.com
- Instagram: @justinwheatleyart
