Segmation’s Interview with Artist Edgars Būmeisters

It seems that talent is no respecter of age. An exceptionally talented artist who is, say, 70 years old, was probably just as talented at age 17. Of course, that aptitude may have been undeveloped, therefore many artistic skills were likely yet to be attained. But, the raw talent was still there.

Latvian artist Edgars Būmeisters is, in our opinion and the opinions of many others, a highly talented young man who is forging his artistic path with zeal and determination. Although he possesses no formal education in art, he routinely creates artwork that is received well and eagerly anticipated by his audience. And, at just twenty years of age, he has an impressive 19,000-plus followers on Twitter. Obviously, his art is making its mark on (and off) social media. What is Edgars’ secret to the success he has experienced so far? The answer is, hard work. His old-fashioned work ethic and commitment to his craft will undoubtedly usher him into his artistic destiny.

Here at Segmation, we love interviewing artists who are full of life and possibilities and are willing to share their journies with us. Edgars was especially delightful to work with. Read on to find out why.

Segmation’s Interview with Artist Edgars Būmeisters

1. Edgars, what does your art mean to you?

Since childhood, my passion for art and creativity developed with every small drawing I made. Whether I had a bad day or a good day, I just wanted to get my feelings out there by creating art. Drawing not only became a passion but also an escape from reality, from the monotony of my day-to-day life. My art has taken me to new places and allowed me to meet fantastic people who make this world worth living in.

2. Where did you receive training, or are you self-taught?

I am a self-taught artist. I learned from other artists by simply reaching out to them for help. We shared our skills and I slowly found my niche. A tattoo artist once said to me, “If your goal is to get better at something, then you need to practice. Period.” When I started drawing, I had no experience or guidance. I just found a pen and started to draw. Along the way, I met other people who loved art. I was able to connect with artists who could share some advice, and I gleaned as much as I could from them. Because my two older sisters are well educated, I value the importance of knowledge. On the other hand, my mother is an artistic person who loves flowers and also to draw and paint, and she succeeded without any formal education. So far, I have tried to merge these two paths. In the future, I want to receive formal art education – that’s a big goal of mine.

3. Why are animals your primary subjects? What is it about them that you are so passionate about?

Concerns about the preservation of natural habitats for a good quality of life for animals in zoos bring up issues that deserve to be considered in academic, artistic and political arenas. I am an animal lover, so I am privileged to raise awareness of their needs with my art. I’ve mastered the skill of using charcoal pencils to draw animals. I started with tigers and lions. They look so emotional in black and white. I feel I express them best with charcoals.

4. What does your creative process look like? How do you get inspired and how long does it take you to create a piece of art?

Spending time in my own head is important. Sometimes I get ideas from just being with my own thoughts for a while. Or, when I have a blank canvas or a piece of paper in front of me, I just listen to music and wait for ideas to come. The time it takes me to create an entire art piece depends on many different aspects (how big/complex the piece is going to be, etc.). Just a month ago, I finished my biggest painting. It features a family of lions and is 62×65. It took me more than 300 hours altogether to complete. I can honestly say that I don’t regret a minute of the process. I can typically complete a human portrait in about five hours. Sometimes I don’t even count hours or worry about time because I know that if I put in the hard work, I’ll get good results.

5. Is there a specific artistic skill you wish you naturally possessed? Are you planning on pursuing this skill?

A few months ago, I started to paint with acrylics. People liked my first painting (on canvas), so I am training to develop my skill using acrylics. Later, I will try to paint with oil. Also, I have always been amazed at people who are able to play violin. It’s a delicate and beautiful instrument. Unfortunately, I can’t play any musical instruments, but it’s something I want to try someday.

6. What is your favorite color?

My favorite color is blue; it’s so relaxing. I have blue eyes and my sign is Aquarius, so maybe that’s why it’s my favorite color. I once read an article that said people who like blue “like to be admired for their steady character and wisdom.” For me, this is true.

It’s Never Too Late to Follow Your Artistic Dream

One is never too young to follow his or her artistic dream. One is never too old for this venture, either. Edgars is setting off on the path of creating art professionally at a young age. The blessings that come with this choice are many, and they are already beginning to manifest in his life. We can only imagine where he will be in a few more years.

Want to follow Edgars on Twitter? Click here. Also, don’t forget to take a look at his Facebook page.

Edgars is following his dream, but what about you? Whether you are 20 or 80, are you willing to take the sometimes-difficult steps toward pursuing your artistic goals? Share your thoughts with us in the “comments” section below.