Welcome to my first interview in a new series. I’m pleased to introduce you to Jason Gluskin, a painter/fine artist based in Hoboken/NYC area originally from Boston. Check out this short intro video. (music is also by Jasons talented dad) View in youtube also here.
Like most artists my work is an extension of myself. I like to think I’m a pretty positive guy and hopefully that transcends through my work. I’ve been creating since I was a little guy… but have only been painting seriously for about three years or so now. People say my style is musical, whimsical and colorful. I’ll take that! I’ve had the creative bug since I can remember. I need to keep putting my energy into some artistic outlet or otherwise a big part of me feels suppressed. I’ve tried various channels but right now painting seems to be working. I play guitar for fun, have a creative day job, listen to music all day, read a lot… I need all those things to keep me inspired.
What kind of art education did you have growing up?
I minored in studio art in college but studied marketing and business which seemed like a practical outlet for my creative juices. I also have a Master’s degree in integrated marketing. Part of me wishes more focused and rigorous about my art back when I was 18, but I was more interested in partying, my friends and girls than getting into a gallery. Actually, I never had any ambitions to be a painter. That just happened. I’ve been getting my real art education in the past few years and love learning about new styles and the history behind the masters.
Congratulations on your recent press coverage. What would you say is your one biggest piece of advice to get press coverage and then dealing with interviews?
Journalists are looking for interesting stories. Figure out a way to tell yours in a unique way and get it to them. Check out Jason’s recent interview on WMBC’s News below or on youtube here
You also work a hectic fulltime job. How do you manage to keep the balance between work and being creative? Do you ever sleep? 🙂
I also love painting so it’s never a chore. I’ve found that as soon as I put myself in front of the canvas it just comes out and relaxes me… no matter how tired I am at the end of the day. And, no. I don’t sleep a lot haha.
What is your biggest challenge as a creative person – and how do you overcome it?
Good one. There are many. First off I’m most always full of energy. With that I have high aspirations and a lot I want to accomplish which can get exhausting. I’ve learned to slow myself down a bit, let things unfold at their own pace and enjoy the process. Also, being an artist does make you more sensitive to things. You feel, see and dig a bit deeper and have to learn how to balance that out in a healthy way. I was raised Jewish but have embraced Buddhism and meditation over the past few years to keep myself chill and in check. It’s the best drug I’ve found. That and running.
What advice do you have for people just starting to explore their creative dreams?
I’ve been developing this thing of mine since I was 5. Its so much fun but I always feel like I need to learn more and develop. You have to love it and you can’t measure success on selling your work or getting shows or you’ll be utterly depressed. You just have to do it because it makes you happy or is an expression. If other people dig it too that’s just icing on the cake. And if you can sell your work… well that’s a whole other thing that you need to manage internally. It can be both complicated and awesome. We’re all very emotionally attached to our art.
Leverage the internet and communicate with your fans. I am always flattered when anyone compliments me. No matter who they are. Art is so subjective… it’s so amazing when somebody gets it. Also there is no definitive path for being an artist. My biggest challenge is I don’t want to be trapped in my style. In life we tend to go back to what worked in the past before for success. But that’s mundane. Pushing yourself is scarier but more rewarding. I hope I can just keep growing and developing as an artist and person and just enjoy the ride. It’s pretty awesome.
Thanks to Jason for taking the time to share with us. You can also view more artwork and prints on Jason’s website and get the latest info/connect with Jason on facebook.
Hi, I'm Louise and thank you so much for visiting me here. I am a mixed media artist, who is passionate about combining the healing energy of nature and color with the meditative process of mandala making
Thanks for sharing this artist and his work. I love his city scapes.
Great interview.
Talented guy!
great interview-thanks for introducing him to us!
WOW! This was a great interview Louise! Hard work, patience and passion goes a long way… His work is alive! I LOVE IT! There was SO much good info here…I am grateful to you both for sharing it. xo
Thank you Louise….fantastic interview!! Jason creates a wonderful spirit and positivity through his work….inspiring 🙂
Thank you all for the kind words! Just keep doin' art and adding some positive energy to the world. Everything else falls in place.
Rock on,
Jason