AARON SAMUEL
"Creatives are like a splash of colour in this grey world!"
ABOUT
Art has always been an integral part of my life. From an early age, I was recognized for my artistic talent — my work often showcased by teachers as an example to others. Growing up on the gritty side of London, surrounded by drugs and violence, it was challenging to stay focused. When my dad left and my brother moved out, I became the man of the house, making it necessary to find work to support my mum and sister.
I took on various jobs, but quickly realized this wasn’t the life I wanted. At times, desperation clouded my judgment, but my friends reminded me I was too talented to risk my freedom. After college, feeling that my understanding of the art world was limited, I took time off to develop my skills and learn how to turn my passion into a livelihood.
Studying artists like Kelvin Okafor and Dirk Dzimirsky motivated me to experiment with new tools and dedicate longer hours to achieving hyperrealistic results. My first exhibition, Shades of Grey, held in honor of Black History Month, opened my eyes to a broader art community. Meeting new people provided valuable insights into how I could progress.
Sharing my art online helped me gain recognition both locally and internationally. Today, my ultimate goal is to travel the world, exhibiting my work globally and inspiring not just fellow artists, but anyone who encounters my art. I’m continually motivated by people who find inspiration in my journey, which fuels my desire to keep creating and evolving.
Leyton Library Exhibition
Black History
2022
HOW I DO IT
While I use photographs as references, much of my work is improvised. Once I’ve established accurate proportions, I work loosely with the photograph, allowing my unique style to emerge. Although my portraits appear realistic from a distance, a closer look reveals a tapestry of dots and lines that interact to create a vibrant texture.
I typically begin a portrait by studying the reference photograph thoroughly, familiarizing myself with the subject before putting pencil to paper. I start with the eyes and work outward, meticulously capturing as much detail as possible.
"HAVE YOU EVER TRIED TO THREAD A NEEDLE?"
My drawing process is a very meticulous thought-provoking and time consuming process. Every stroke of the pencil is literally like trying to put a thread through a needle. My aim is to emulate real life, so I find that precision and accuracy are big factors when creating a piece of artwork. I wasn't born with the ability to draw like how I do today, it took hard work and a lot of practise. I was very determined to improve so I practised my craft everyday.
