Today we’d like to introduce you to Harold Smith Jr.
Hi Harold, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I am self taught artist who has been writing and drawing since grade school. I taught from 1986-2021 and was making art along the way. When I retired from teaching, I began doing art full time. Kind of like the late black woman painter Alma Thomas. I have also created documentary films, written short stories and books, wrote a play, and have lately curated some art exhibitions. I also am an arts writer for KC Studio magazine.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Hasn’t been smooth. It has lots of ups and downs. For one, there are a lot of artists and less than 1% of the population collects original art, it took a long time to get eyes on my work because of the fact that I did not go to art school and was self taught and doing it part time. Art supplies cost money too and then life’s other challenges along the way.
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 am known for work on the Black experience with a focus on my own personal experience. I primarily paint in acrylic and my Man of Color series is probably my most popular. I am most proud of my staying power, resilience, and determination to keep going even when I literally went for years on end with no recognition. I think what sets me apart is that I am not just an artist but I read constantly and also write and speak on art, Black art and artists, and the issues surrounding it.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
I like Kansas City, KS side’s laid back feel. KCMO is literally minutes away but where I live is like a small town or city. What I like least is the fact things are so spread out and the public transportation is limited compared to other cities. I like the fact that it is grown art city but contemporary artists often have to leave Kansas City to get recognition for their work.
Pricing:
- I offer work on Singulart and Zatista
- I am represented in KC by Sherry Leedy Contemporary Art and in Newport, Rhode Island by Montanaro Fine Art
- My website is haroldsmithstudios.com
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.haroldsmithstudios.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haroldsmithart/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HaroldSmithArtist
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@haroldsmithartsart
