Today we’d like to introduce you to Sylvia Morgan.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I am a charter member of the Sugar Land Art Center which has been open to the public for 12 years. My experiences with SLAC&G include: Art Sales, Gallery Management, Commissions, Teaching Classes/Critiques/Private Lessons, Event Participation, Workshops, and Live Demos.
Over the past few years, I’ve painted numerous views of Sugar Land upon request by the city of Sugar Land as gifts for dignitaries and retirees.
My art experiences continue to be an evolving process and a learning experience. I continue to meet interesting art lovers in the area and out of the area who visit my studio in need of commission work and to purchase my numerous creations in watercolor and acrylics.
Please tell us about your art.
My work in watercolor usually brings in clients needing realistic art. My watercolors are never dull or weak because I always find ways to bring in color even when I work from a black and white photo provided by my clients.
I am usually looking around me for interesting Historical Sites or buildings like the Old Imperial Holly Char House. My feeling is I should paint what I have experienced or actually seen. I believe artists should attempt to capture history and events as they happen.
My work in acrylics will often be realistic scenes from vacations when I am not capturing a scene or a portrait for a client. Then, to keep it exciting, I often go right into abstract interpretation of my subject when I work for myself. I do not fear color, in fact, it is often what catches my eye more than the subject. My use of color is why I have been lucky getting guests to drop into my studio with positive comments about my choices.
Choosing a creative or artistic path comes with many financial challenges. Any advice for those struggling to focus on their artwork due to financial concerns?
Financial concerns are always on the mind of the serious artist. I have never asked for anyone to sponsor me. I do market myself through my websites and through the Sugar Land Art Center. I am realistic enough to know that it takes years to create a base of returning clients and they are often the average people out there who know the wisdom of collecting art directly from the artist.
I did work in the corporate world right out of college in two really exciting jobs during my early years. later I did part-time for the City of Sugar Land to pay my studio rent. The city is growing and appreciates my talent in capturing art around the area.
I do have a degree in art from East Texas State University, but sadly, art colleges did not teach graduates how to support themselves as an artist back then. They did not have a list of places that were hiring artists. I had to figure that out on my own. I do tell the young artists to never give up on your art talent, be willing to try to find companies who appreciate the creative mind and never turn down an art challenge.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
I am usually in my studio at 104 Industrial Blvd, Suite Q, Studio 2, Sugar Land, Texas, Monday through Friday, and Saturday mornings. Anyone with an interested in a studio tour or chat can contact me through my email or my cell.
I receive a lot of positive emotional support almost daily as guests drop by my studio to view my art and watch me create. Often, the best compliment is when a novice asks me about private watercolor lessons.
However, hiring me to create a large series for public appreciation is what I find to be the most rewarding. One of my favorite challenges was a collection of ten U.S. Military paintings for a Sugar Land Rotary Club fundraiser. Another project was 18 watercolors I was commissioned to create for the Installation of the Texas Historical Marker at the Armadillo Ranch in Comfort, Texas.
Contact Info:
- Address: 104 Industrial Blvd, Suite Q, Studio 2, Sugar Land, TX 77478
- Website: www.artbysylvia-tx.com and www.sylvia-morgan.fineartamerica.com
- Phone: 713-516-7440
- Email: slsgmorgan3@hotmail.com
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
