3eWe had the good fortune of connecting with Venus and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Venus, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
In college I took an Art Appreciation class and became fascinated by the deeper meaning and expression in art. That’s what pulled me in. The idea that a canvas picture could have a message or tell a story. It’s not just a pretty picture. How does it make you feel? What is it saying to you? The answer will be different for everyone. I find that fascinating and I wanted to participate in creating expressive works.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve studied or been involved in art every day since I began painting in 2005. I began painting abstracts and studied until I learned to paint realism portraits. Having reached that plateau, I’ve sought to use my skills to create works that are more expressive and thought provoking. I’ve learned to paint what I like to paint instead of what others direct me to paint. Spontaneity in my work is an important aspect for me. I’m really moved to paint.
It has not been easy. As a female artist there are a lot of challenges. But I love what I do! It really is a passion and I don’t let anything keep me from it.
And what I want the world to know is how passionate I am about art. I have an immune deficiency and an autoimmune disease but I don’t let that get in the way of my love for art. I’m just really dedicated. Not just my art, but everyone’s art. I love to support other artists and love museums, galleries, and art books. Painting is a full time job and takes dedication and I have worked hard at it. It’s not a natural talent. Its work. But painting is something I’m moved to do and i love it. I went from abstracts to realism. For me, that is a great achievement. I’m most proud of that. I set small challenges for myself. Since paining realism portraits, I’m kind of going in reverse into something that is more raw and organic, yet expressive and progressive. That’s what I’m doing now and collectors have really taken to it.
I get so much support and I appreciate it so much. Supporting me not only helps me and my family, but also the art community and charities that I support. That really means a lot.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If a friend came to town I would of course take them see The Arlington Museum of Art or the Kimbell Art Museum or the Modern Art Museum in Fort Worth or The Dallas Museum of Art. They all have excellent exhibitions! We might stop by The Highlands in Arlington for shopping and dining or an ice cream at Marble Slab.
I might take them to Hurricane Harbor water park or to see a baseball game or football game. Our new sports stadiums are spectacular!
I like to go to The Rose Garden Tea Room at Gracie Lane in Arlington for lunch or Chapps Burgers, Hurtado has great Barbecue in downtown Arlington and BFF Asian Bar and Grill has a posh atmosphere and excellent food and cocktails.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I come from a family of artists, actors, writers and musicians. I’ve been involved in The Arts all of my life. My grandfather was film actor Rusty Lee (Raising Arizona, Young Guns 2, Gunsmoke…) My grandmother was a famous author. Other family members were musicians and painters. Looking back, all of that had a profound influence on me. My family has always supported and encouraged me in everything artistic that I’ve done.

Website: TheArtofVenus.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/venusartist

Linkedin: @VenusArtist

Facebook: Facebook.com/VenusArtist.3/

Other: TikTok @theartistvenus

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.