Meet Bailey Terry of Bailey Gage ART in The Woodlands

Today we’d like to introduce you to Bailey Terry.

Bailey, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I am a self-taught artist, originally born in Houston. Raised in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

My parents are both very creative individuals. My father, an island hippie at heart, created more abstract, industrial, and funky pieces of art. My mother, on the other hand, had a rock and roll heart. She painted murals in homes, children rooms, hospitals, and offices. They both have always had a great appreciation for music and art. They always took me to galleries, art shows, exhibits and some of the biggest art/music festival events! Art and music have always been a huge part of my life and growth.

Growing up in two very different environments as well as traveling all my life, has really shaped me into the person I am today — my favorite thing to do while traveling is visiting art galleries. To me, art is a way of self-expression. The more I traveled, the more artists I discovered I was specifically drawn to. Their work spoke to me, made me feel something. Made me feel alive.

I have always been drawn to create. To share my vision with the world. Painting has always been a vessel to my own personal self-expression. I get most of my inspiration from interesting people, nature, fantasy, and space. Most of my work has colors that represent the vibrant Caribbean islands and the depth of space. I enjoy painting beautiful people and majestic animals that inspire me. However, I have always been drawn to the ocean and space, two of the most undiscovered things in our world.

I began teaching painting classes four years ago. I enjoy teaching just as much as I enjoy creating my own works of art. I strongly believe that every being is an artist in their own way, and allowing that creative spark to express itself is vital for the future world we want to create.

Has it been a smooth road?
Being a professional artist is hard. It takes a lot of time and energy to create each piece. To brand yourself, market your work and just putting yourself out there in general.

The hardest part for me has been finding a balance between making custom art for others and creating my own pieces of art. It is important to keep that passion alive. Otherwise, you’re just painting to just to paint. Rejection. Everyone fears rejection.

When you make a piece of art, you are putting your whole self into that piece. You are putting that out for the whole world to see. Throughout the process, you’re fighting battles within yourself to achieve your perception of perfect or what you see as a finished piece.

Success. Every thriving artist wants to be successful. The saying starving artist is very real. I have lived it. Wanting to create something so badly you spend every last dollar on art supplies and things that catch your eye. In the hopes of creating something beautiful, for the world to see.

More than anything I think the biggest challenge I face is becoming successful recognized artist. To be able to fully support myself through my art. There is nothing more in this world I would rather do than paint and create. It’s not just a hobby for me, this is my life, career path, my purpose. Supporting artists is supporting a dream.

We’d love to hear more about what you do.
I am a professional artist that specializes in Acrylic and ink. Though, I also work in mediums like charcoal, graphite, watercolor, mixed media, wine, and installation art. I work with photographers as a creative artist. I create concepts and make scenes, props, headpieces, costumes, and makeup/hair that compliment that vision.

I have showcased my work in various exhibits and galleries in Houston TX and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Worked with worldwide award-winning and published photographers. I am currently a student at Glassell School of Art, associated with the Museum of Fine Arts.

Along with being a self-taught artist, I am currently taking painting and drawing courses to build my skill level and grow in my craft. Having the opportunity to work with established artist has really helped me to explore and learn new techniques.

Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Absolutely! Houston has an amazing music and art scene. There are always galleries and shows going on. So many opportunities for artists of all genres. Houston has an amazing art community.

Some of my favorite art venues are MOMA and the Menil. Along with wonderful art galleries, Houston has a plentiful amount of installation art and graffiti walls across town you can explore for free. When in Houston, I am inspired everyday.