“Untitled” | A Minimalist Perspective w/ Windell Dobson
by Nyah Chapman
Meet Windell Dobson
As a contemporary and modern abstract artist, Windell Dobson artfully navigates his day to day life by seeing the beauty in everything, taking risks and admiring “the small stuff”.
His work is a clever blend of aesthetics, texture and minimalism which allows his audience to appreciate the “small” details of his work before they realize the bigger picture.
His life mantra is continuously reflected throughout his collections; Finding the beauty in simplicity.
We were delighted to recently meet up with Mr. Dobson to view his collection, gather his thoughts on the digital art space and find out what inspires him on his artistic journey.
LL: Windell, tell us who you are and what you do?
Windell: I’m many things, but my passion lies in being a continuously evolving art innovator with a focus as a minimalist abstract artist. I’m always developing new techniques and styles, and enhancing art by making expression easier, clearer and more recognizable. I’m committed to creating art that’s admired and commissioned through various channels, which has allowed me to work closely with premier interior designers.
LL: Who was your biggest role model growing up?
Windell: There are two people in my life who serve as my biggest role models. The lady I call “Mommy,” Mrs. Inez Wilson, taught me that expression is the key to understanding oneself and to never be afraid of the things in life over which I have no control. Growing up, I always admired how she navigated through life with dignity and respect. She always wanted me to establish a brand that not only resonates with others but also exudes emotion, admiration and respect. Mr. Michael Clark was my high school track and field coach in Jamaica. He was a father figure, motivator, influencer, and most importantly, a man who I will always love and respect. Through his example, I learned the importance of self-confidence, character, discipline and humility.
LL: Where do you find inspiration from?
Windell: Inspiration is all around me, but my subconscious is like a record that stays on continuous play. I see shapes, colors and forms at every turn. I often get lost in the idea of innovating subconsciously.
LL:. Have you always been a naturally talented artist? When were you first introduced?
Windell: My artistic abilities came naturally. I created my first piece of artwork at age 14. I received my degree in fine arts, and while I’ve created sculptures, my passion is abstract art.
LL: How do you find balance in this digital world?
Windell: I have a lot of interests that keep me busy outside my artwork. There’s a time and space for all things digital, but I don’t let it consume me. I enjoy using social media for my business and connecting with others, but I’m intentional in stepping back and focusing on other things in life that matter most to me.
LL: We have to touch on NFT's. What are your thoughts on digital art? Do you think it is here to stay?
Windell: The world is ever-changing. The way we see, and process things are becoming more a part of our everyday lives and that includes digital art. However, I believe seeing brush strokes or texture in art – and feeling it – will always be appealing and authentic.
LL: Describe how important traditional art is in today's society.
Windell: I believe traditional art is very important in today’s society. Everything requires a solid foundation on which to stand, and that translates to art too. It’s a source of inspiration and timeless.
LL: Tell us about your favorite medium.
Windell: I create art as fast as my brain triggers my creativity. So, I like using acrylics because its scentless and it dries quickly. It’s also more flexible. That allows me to move on to my next creative just as quickly whether it’s on canvas, paper or incorporating natural fibers into my work.
LL: Who are your biggest artistic influences?
Windell: I love the old masters such as Pablo Picasso and Jackson Pollock. They’ve been my biggest influences. I studied them and others in college. Personally, their bodies of work are a great foundation from which to learn and admire.
LL: What advice would you give to other artists who may be lacking motivation and confidence?
Windell: The best advice I have for other artists who may be lacking motivation and confidence is to believe in yourself and your abilities. Create what inspires you. Be open to constructive criticism, but don’t take it personally. Use it as a springboard and motivator. Take chance. And most importantly, don’t underestimate your value and don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.
LL: What is the first thing you do in the morning and the last thing before bed?
Windell: An early morning workout to me is like that first cup of coffee to some people. It gets my day going. Since my days are typically long, I do different things to help me slowly wind down for the day before going to bed, such as reading, reflecting on inspirational quotes, or getting lost in imagery of various interior spaces online.
My favorite book is Wabi Sabi: Japanese Wisdom for a Perfectly Imperfect Life by Beth Kempton. My favorite quote is from the same book. “
Wabi Sabi is about finding beauty in simplicity, and a spiritual richness and serenity in detaching from the material world. Sabi is more concerned with the passage of time, with the way that all things grow and decay and how aging alters the visual nature of things. It’s less about what we see, and more about how we see.”