Today we’d like to introduce you to Roger Paul Mason.
Roger, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I was born in Brooklyn New York and graduated from the Rhode Island School of Design. Having no idea how to make a living with just an art degree I jumped into being a professional musician instead. From there, I ended up producing bands in Brooklyn and Brazil as well as composing for cartoons and film. After moving to Austin in my 30s, I eventually had to choose between touring in a band and painting scenery for the ZACH theatre full time. The return to visual art has turned out to be a wonderful decision and though I’m super busy I still find time for commissions and the occasional music project.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The main challenge for any independent artist is figuring out how to properly monetize their work and justify the huge investment of time it takes to complete any project.
I’ve spent a lifetime learning about self-control and sacrifice, turning the media off and staying inside on a sunny day until the painting is done.
Please tell us more about what you do, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I am currently the scenic artist at ZACH Theatre in Austin, Texas. I work in a shop with 11 other extremely hard working and talented folks to build and paint the sets for three different stages.
In my own artwork, I focus on painting the changing urban landscape of Austin and trying to capture as much beauty as I can before it becomes nothing but condos and chain coffee shops.
I am also a musician and composer. Lately, I have been focused on building an electronic music space in my living room that functions as one big modular synthesizer that you can walk around in. It’s sort of got to be seen to be believed.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My dad’s a musician/painter and my mom is a costume designer so being busy and creative seemed natural to the point of mundane growing up. It was only later that I realized how lucky I was for constant encouragement.
My high school art teacher Judy Harrigan saved my life. Everything I’ve done since then should have a disclaimer on it that says I owe her one.
My girlfriend is an incredible woman named Jamaica. We work together on everything lately which adds a wonderful layer of chaos and dialog to what might otherwise be a pretty standard song or wedding gift painting commission.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.rogerpaulmasonart.com
- Phone: 5189290739
- Email: rogerpaulmason@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rogerpaulmason/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rogerpaulmason
- Other: https://soundcloud.com/paintshopgirls
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