“If I didn’t choose art I would still be djing in clubs and doing ungodly amounts of drugs. I should have been dead years ago but somehow I survived.”
Terry Urban’s Artistic Roots
Terry Urban is an artist born in the blue-collar city of Cleveland, Ohio, located in the Midwest of the United States. This “underdog” town, known for its resilience and hardworking spirit, greatly influenced his art, which often reflects themes of determination, perseverance, and struggle.
Growing up in a family of Irish American heritage and under the guidance of his Cherokee stepfather, Terry developed a deep-rooted appreciation for the underdog, which serves as a central theme in much of his work. His paintings capture the human condition, often depicting dark imagery that reveals the complexities of the human psyche.
Through his artistic expression, Terry continues to showcase his unwavering spirit and profound connection to his roots. His artwork stands as a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit and serves as an inspiration to many.
Terry Urban specializes in creating striking compositions on both canvas and wood, skillfully combining vibrant colors with evocative imagery that often delves into themes of mortality. Despite the prevalence of such motifs throughout his work, the true impetus behind his captivation with death remains a mystery, even to himself. It could be rooted in a profound anxiety about the inevitability of death, or perhaps it’s driven by a curiosity to better understand the enigmatic realm of the afterlife.
Terry Urban’s Creative Process
Urban works in his private studio situated in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, where he immerses himself in solitary artistic pursuits while indulging in the sweet melodies of his favorite tunes. His daily routine commences with a refreshing surfing session at dawn, followed by an intensive painting session that consumes the rest of his day. Through his diligent work and creative passion, Terry continues to forge a unique path in the competitive world of art and music.
Terry Urban draws his inspiration from a multitude of sources, such as captivating documentaries, soul-stirring melodies, and stirring world events that often leave him feeling discontented. His creative process is driven by his desire to express the essence of his experiences and to make a statement about issues that matter to him.
A recent example of this was when he painted a poignant piece depicting the tragic train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio. The painting served as a powerful commentary on the devastating impact of rampant capitalistic greed on people’s lives. To raise awareness about the issue, he shared the painting on his Instagram account, hoping to inspire his followers to take action against the injustices that plague society. Terry Urban’s work exemplifies his commitment to using art as a medium to convey messages that resonate with his audience and address the most pressing issues of our time.
An Unwavering Commitment to Artistic Expression
Urban’s artistic style becomes increasingly refined and sophisticated. In his earlier years as an artist, he acknowledges that much of his work was less than satisfactory. He anticipates that in ten years’ time, he will likely view his current creations with the same critical eye. However, at present, Terry’s main focus is on being fully invested in his artistic endeavors, giving them his complete attention and energy.
Reflecting on his past, Terry recalls a pivotal moment six years ago when he was at a crossroads. He had to choose between pursuing a career as a DJ or reigniting his passion for painting. He ultimately made the decision to dedicate himself to painting once again, and it has been a fruitful and fulfilling choice. Terry has never looked back since then and remains unwavering in his commitment to artistic expression.
Terry Urban despises all of his work, being notoriously self-critical. His difficult upbringing in a household with a stern stepfather undoubtedly played a part in shaping his unforgiving attitude toward his own creations. However, he has discovered a comforting sanctuary in art, which has become his go-to therapy. At present, he is completely invested in a new artistic series, which he is carefully infusing with texture. The direction in which the series is evolving has filled him with great satisfaction and contentment.
Terry Urban’s Vision for Immersive Art Experiences
One of the artist’s dream projects would involve creating a captivating and truly immersive experience for his audience. He envisions an exhibition that fully envelops visitors in a one-of-a-kind environment, transporting them to another world. With a keen eye for curation and an unwavering commitment to creating an unforgettable experience, Terry Urban aspires to showcase a collection that leaves a lasting impression on all who attend.
Terry Urban firmly believes that art can significantly benefit individuals in various areas of their lives. He speaks from personal experience, as art has served as a lifeline for him. If not for his decision to pursue art, Terry would still be working as a DJ in clubs and indulging in an alarming amount of drugs, a lifestyle that would have likely resulted in his untimely demise. However, his foray into the world of art has provided him with an avenue to express himself freely and to convey his story through his paintings.
Through his art, Terry hopes to inspire others to embrace a life of creativity and self-expression. His greatest goal is to produce work that resonates with his audience, leaving a lasting impression on their lives. For Terry, his journey in art has been an incredible accomplishment, allowing him to tell his story and inspire others to embark on their own journeys of creative discovery.
