A little bit about Tim:

I grew up in Suffolk, Virginia. I chose to illustrate my life experiences through my art. This is emphasized due to the era of growing up in a rural environment in the early sixties when civil rights was at the height of everyone’s agenda, especially African Americans. Like many of my neighbors, I grew up in a single parent household. My mother stressed two things; education and being a productive citizen. This was to ensure that one day I would give back to the community that molded me as a kid. My mother purchased me my first paint by numbers set which was the start to expressing my life on canvas. I have no formal training but was given a gift from God as a self-taught artist.
After graduation from John F. Kennedy High in Suffolk, I joined the United States Marine Corps in 1979 and served 3 years where my curiosity for different cultures was formed. I took advantage of every opportunity to paint and show my artwork; whether church murals, signage and logos on barber shop windows, murals on the walls of residences and participation in local art shows. I am fortunate that my home state of Virginia embraces visual art and provides a creative environment for up and coming artists.

Where to find Tim:

Web: fineartamerica.com/profiles/timothy-giles
Instagram: @timegilesaac

1. How did you first discover your interest in art?

My first discovery in art was when I was about eight years old. My mother thought it was a good idea; to provide me with something positive, to keep me out of trouble as a kid.  She purchased me my first paint by number set. Its how I learned about color, composition, perspective, etc. The rest is history.

2. What was the first work of art/artist you remember being excited about?

My first and favorite was Norman Rockwell. I love the way he turned everyday activities into art.

3. What was your dream job as a child?

I thought I wanted to be a commercial artist.  However, over time that changed because I didn’t want anyone to control what I created.

“What She Sees is What She’ll Be” by Tim Giles

9. Are you a night owl or early bird?

I prefer to paint early in the morning, because that is when I get my burst of energy. However, I have no objections to painting at night either. Usually, I am too tired when I get home from my 9-to-5.

10. How long does it take you to feel finished with a piece of art, and how do you decide it’s done?

It depends on the piece. Some work I have completed in the past, I knew right away what I am trying to accomplish. Being extremely creative sometimes, I will try crazy things for effects. Example I painted a painting titled “BLUE” where I poured water onto the water color paper, dropped different color inks in the water, and watched the ink run……….. then I focused on the image. It was so much fun!

11. How would you describe your art in three words?

Realistic, detailed, tells stories.

12. What fictional person do you want to meet the most?

The Incredible Hulk.

13. What’s your favorite and least favorite thing about being an artist?

My favorite is creating art, and my least favorite is selling art.  I typically get help running the business i.e., art shows, advertising, etc

14. If you could only create art of one subject for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Historical incidents of the past. An example would be the cruelties done to African-Americans: slavery, lynching, etc.  Why? To capture history to pass on to the youth. They must know their history, I believe.  You see artists are modern day scribes, and we create/capture the pulse of that particular event in history. We feel the pulse of that time.

15. If you could have a studio anywhere in the world, where would it be?

My home town, Suffolk, Virginia. I want to open the first African-American museum/studio there.  Of course, working in Paris would be fun too