Tell us a bit about yourself and your journey as an artist.
My name is Collin Patrick, and I am a Kenyan-American artist born in Dallas, Texas. Creativity has always been an integral part of my life, whether through playing instruments, drawing, or clothing design. However, throughout my childhood, pursuing art as a career was never considered a serious option by me or those around me. It wasn’t until my early 20s that I began to explore it as a potential career path.
What sparked your interest and led you to pursue your artistic outlet(s)?
I decided to fully embrace fine art as a way to escape the corporate finance world, which was my initial field of study and work. Art became a means of reclaiming my time and life, and it was only then that I began to take the idea of a career in art seriously.
Who or what influences your artistry the most?
My art is influenced by a rich blend of sources, including Southern African American culture in the U.S., the jazz and hip-hop movements from the late 1900s to the present, the neo-expressionist movement of the 1970s, and the diverse lifestyles I observe in the West.
How would you describe the unique style and themes in your art?
My creativity is eclectic, spanning mixed media paintings, photography, fashion, and audiovisual media. I don’t confine myself to a single medium or style; instead, I explore and learn as much as possible about each one. Rather than striving to master any particular medium, I prefer to remain a student of everything that piques my interest.
Can you share your most cherished project or piece, and what makes it unique?
One of my favorite works to date is a series of paintings inspired by the Book of Proverbs. This series delves into themes of parental relationships, coming of age, and the transfer of generational wisdom. It was featured in a solo exhibition at The Reach Gallery Museum earlier this year. The personal significance of this project, coupled with the emotional release I experienced while discussing it at the exhibition’s opening, makes it forever dear to my heart.
Reflecting on your journey, what obstacles have you encountered, and how did you overcome them?
As an African American artist, one of the challenges I’ve faced is the tendency for others to equate “Blackness” with my entire identity. While my work naturally reflects the culture I know, I often find myself categorized as a “Black artist,” as if there’s a need to segregate us into our own “separate but equal” league. While this can sometimes work in my favor, such as during Black History Month exhibitions, it often feels exploitative when galleries only reach out to fulfill a diversity quota.
How do you approach continuous growth and evolution in your artistic endeavors?
I never stop trying new things; I can’t sit still long enough to do so. Whether improving my skills, learning from others, or teaching myself something new, I’m always seeking growth. I place great value on connecting with others, as these interactions expand my understanding and often lead to new opportunities.
Walk us through your typical creative process.
Creatives often struggle with structure, and I’m no exception. I find it difficult to work on something when I’m “supposed to” and tend to procrastinate when under pressure. Ironically, the urge to create often strikes when I’m somewhere I can’t or shouldn’t work—like when I’m about to fall asleep, on a trip, or working on something else. When inspiration hits, I try to at least start the project or jot down the idea for later exploration. The creative process then unfolds naturally, with the idea taking shape as it develops. As an artist, you’re never fully in control, and you have to allow the work to become its own entity. It’s similar to parenting—you guide it, give it love and attention, and hope it becomes something you’re proud of.
Do any specific rituals or routines help you maintain a creative mindset? If yes, what are they?
I avoid becoming too attached to specific habits, as I find they can limit me to certain outcomes. Instead, I wait for the right moment and jump into action when it arrives. This might mean staying up until 8 a.m. working or working for only an hour at a time over three months. There’s no magic formula—it’s about being open to the creative flow and embracing it when it comes.
Have you had the opportunity to collaborate with fellow local artists or organizations? If yes, could you share some highlights?
I’ve been fortunate to work with The Black Arts Centre in Surrey for nearly two years, helping to foster creativity and highlight diverse artists of all kinds. Being part of this team has been an incredible experience, and I’m deeply grateful for the support I’ve received and the opportunity to impact my community.
In your opinion, how crucial is collaboration within the local artistic community?
Collaboration is the cornerstone of development. All creativity is informed by external influences and the more time you spend engaging with other people, cultures, and ideas, the more enriched your practice becomes. This principle extends beyond art—it’s true on a personal level and impacts every aspect of our lives. We are social beings, and we flourish when given the space to collaborate with others.
How do you connect with the local community through your art?
I’ve been fortunate to share my work with the community, allowing others to engage with and take part in the creative experience. Through this, I’ve connected with people from all backgrounds, sharing my perspective and receiving theirs in return. This back-and-forth dialogue is a unique element that only emerges when works are freely shared with the world.
What are your short-term and long-term aspirations as an artist?
In the short term, my primary goal is to maintain the freedom to explore and create while still supporting myself. Unfortunately, the arts industry, though fueled by passion and desire, often doesn’t provide a stable career for many. Finding pathways that allow creative freedom is rare, but there’s nothing more rewarding when it happens.
In the long term, I aim to continue growing as a professional artist, secure representation, and establish a stable career that allows me to connect with the world through my work.
Are there dream projects or collaborations you want to pursue in the future?
I’ve always had a passion for the film and fashion industries, and I’m eager to explore those fields further. I’m working to open myself up to these worlds and seek out opportunities to contribute my creative mind to larger projects than I could tackle alone.
What valuable advice would you give to aspiring artists in your community?
The best advice I can offer is to talk to people you admire. Picking their brains for information is crucial for personal development in any field. Whether learning about techniques, professional practices, or funding opportunities, your best bet is to find someone who can mentor you—and don’t hesitate to buy them a coffee!
How do you manage the delicate balance between pursuing your passion and meeting practical needs in your artistic journey?
Balancing personal needs with pursuing your passion often requires sacrifices. For me, those sacrifices are usually sleep or money. However, the reward is the ability to push my passion to its fullest. I may not be wealthy or famous, but I get to do what I love—and that’s all you can hope for.
