TurningArtist Albion Vu seamlessly fuses creativity and professional development in his works, which are rooted in his early interest in art and architecture. From a young age, Albion demonstrated an innate connection to art that has only deepened over the years. This enduring passion for large-scale artwork propelled him to transform his creative pursuits into a professional career. His work is distinguished by themes of depth, layers, and intricate processes, all influenced by his background in architecture and design.
Albion draws inspiration from the forms of architecture, the shapes that surround us, and the everyday interactions and moments, constantly discovering new avenues for creativity.
Can you tell us about your process? Do you have any unique techniques or rituals that are integral to your work?
I have been exploring techniques throughout the years that have been both new and familiar to me. I try to align them with something new I develop but stay true to the source of inspiration I have.
Can you tell us about your journey to becoming a professional artist?
I have been working on art since I was a child. It felt like I never disconnected because everything I was doing related to art and creativity. I had to document it somewhere.
It started to become professional when I discovered my love for large-scale art. That is when I started to think bigger and convert it into a professional endeavor.
When you are looking for inspiration, what resources do you turn to?
Inspiration comes from everywhere for me. Mostly it’s from architecture, shapes I see, connections I create, or images that surround me. Any moment can be a source of inspiration, providing an endless supply for creation.
How does being an artist affect your perception of the world?
I notice things that others do not - that is what makes me an artist and allows me to create things others cannot.
Was there ever a moment of clarity about being an artist?
The urge I have to create all the time gave me no other choice but to be an artist. The sense of transforming everything I see, feel, touch, read, and sense into an art piece is my daily journey.
Finding the right rhythm to be productive can be a challenge, what advice do you have for staying productive and focused?
I thrive in silence - I do a lot of self-talk and meditation to have my mind in the right mode to be creative. I cannot recommend any specific way as we are all different, but all I can say is we have to keep creating all the time, no matter what.
What is your advice for combating creative block?
Be around things that make you feel good, things that stimulate your creativity and your mind. Be efficient with all the art you practice, and avoid anything that will stop or push you away from creating.
As an artist, how do you measure your success? Can you recall a specific event or milestone(s) in your career that made you feel successful?
Success is defined differently for different people. I feel very proud and the most successful when I feel like I created a masterpiece. Being in my work studio and seeing a certain piece that I want to be represented by is the pinnacle for me.
Have other artists inspired your path? If so, can you share how they have influenced your work or career?
The artists who keep practicing and being artists throughout their entire life without ever quitting, no matter the circumstances, are the true inspirations for me. They make me feel like art is something you can be and live with.
What advice do you have for artists who are beginning to build their careers?
CREATE. First and foremost, find who you are as an artist. Display your work in the best and most accessible way possible so people can see it and connect with it. No matter where you are, you can create. If I was able to create large-scale art pieces from my bedroom, anyone can do the same. Learn to connect and introduce your work to people you think it applies to.
Another important thing is to NETWORK. Talk art. Your name and your art should be part of all your conversations. People have to know about it and connect through your story and work.
What drives you to continue creating and pursuing art?
Being able to bring to life something that no one can predict or know about is most meaningful to me. It is exclusive to you and you only until you decide to share it with the world.
Failure is an inevitable part of success in any field. Do you have advice for overcoming setbacks?
As long as you keep creating, never consider yourself a failure. Sooner or later, the timing will come, and all your work may take the deserved spot. Do not overthink and only launch what you think represents you. When you create your identity in art and people recognize your work just by seeing your art piece and not your name, you are on the right path.
What sparked your interest in partnering with TurningArt? Has your experience with TurningArt differed from other art companies you have worked with?
The versatility of projects, especially the commercial ones, intrigued me about being part of TurningArt. Knowing the scale of the artwork I do, which speaks of big volumes and scales, made it a good fit.
What does having your artwork in the workplace and other commercial or public spaces mean to you?
It makes me feel like I live with them without being there.
To see more featured TurningArtists, return to our blog. To get Albion Vu's art in your space, set up a free consultation with an Art Advisor here!