How would you describe your work to someone seeing it for the first time?
My two specialties are realistic landscapes and surrealism. I try to let the viewer choose their interpretation of any themes I am exploring, especially when it comes to my surrealism.
What ideas, themes, or emotions tend to show up again and again in your work?
I like using endangered animals to take on the subject of climate change in my surrealistic pieces. I also really enjoy using light to convey themes and landscape images.
What inspires you most right now, and why?
Mankind’s greatest hurdle in the future is climate change, and I also like using symbolism to convey my message.
What does your creative process typically look like from start to finish?
Since I must see what it is that I paint, I use photos as a reference which are interwoven in my surrealistic pieces. Most of my paintings begin with a rough pencil sketch. I have essentially taught myself how to draw with the brush. I then use a layering technique to create my version of realism. I say this because I am color blind and I am constantly having to tone down the colors in my paintings to get a more realistic look.
Was there a turning point when you started taking your art practice seriously? What happened?
When I was 11 years old in the sixth grade, I created a piece of artwork using colored pencils on paper which resulted in my teacher crying because she could not believe that I had created this picture. The point at which I started taking art seriously was when I sold my first painting in 1987.
How do you know when a piece is finished?
This question is one of the toughest questions for almost any artist to answer. The painting lets me know.
Favorite tool, equipment or material you can’t live without.
Acrylic paints, paint brushes, and water.
What has been one of the biggest lessons you've learned as an artist so far?
Be yourself.
What are you currently working on or exploring next?
I am working on a surrealistic piece which shows symbolism for the working class and what they are up against. The painting will specifically depict farm workers harvesting in a field, with a billboard sign in the background.
Where can people find more of your work online (website and social links)?
My website is “Man of Gold Gallery” or www.sheldongoldmanartist.com. My Instagram account is:
sheldongoldmanartist.
