Interview with an extraordinary artist: Jason Allen Greig

Colored pencil art is rapidly experiencing a whole new level of appreciation in the art world. It is an accessible creative practice that anyone can try. Nowadays, you can find dozens of talented artists from all walks of life who specialize in colored pencil art. Jason Allen Greig is a provocative colored pencil artist who draws fantastically detailed portraits and landscapes using colored pencils.

Based in Carson City, at 40 years of age, he has made a real breakthrough on several fronts in the art world. In most of his drawings, Jason Allen Greig has worked using primarily colored pencil on primed paper, which is quite advantageous because when using this realization process, you start from a midpoint and then you go on to apply the lights and shadows; thus creating an unusual effect.

We asked him a few questions about how he creates and distributes his artwork, which you can see here.

Q: Have you always been passionate about the idea of becoming an artist? What was the catalyst that fueled your interest?

Jason Allen Greig: Drawing and creating things has always been something intrinsic to my life. One of my earliest memories of being praised for my work is from when I was about 6 years old. I woke up and ran downstairs to watch the cartoons, but it was early and there was still nothing on TV so I grabbed my colored pencils and drew a fruit bowl. When my parents saw it they were so impressed that they put up my first solo exhibition on the fridge door. All of our guest were delighted by my work, and I was thrilled with the attention I received.

Q: How would you describe your art? Are there any themes / styles you stick to?

Jason Allen Greig: I do not think it is up to the artist to describe his work, but to generate works for people to comment on, describe and define. When it comes to classifying my work in a style, I find it a difficult task, if not impossible. I don't want to be limited and tagged within a particular material or style, I just want to be known as an artist.

Q: Can you describe your creative process?

Jason Allen Greig: It usually takes me a long time to physically prepare for my job; tidy my space, clean the desk, do the laundry, take a shower, have a second breakfast, look at Instagram, make me a tea, look at Instagram, go out for the materials I need, look at Instagram, enter a state of panic for not having done nothing ... work, work, work.

Q: How did you sell your first artwork?

Jason Allen Greig: It was actually a friend who helped me sell my first work of art. I am always exploring new ways to show my work and to reach the widest possible audience. The global setting that the internet offers is extremely attractive, cutting the astronomical costs associated with traditional auction houses and art galleries. It also helps me to promote and sell my works on a large scale.

Q: What would you advise young artists who have doubts about how to sell their works?

Jason Allen Greig: You have to focus on doing the best job possible. Sales should come naturally if the creation is good.