Today we’d like to introduce you to Al (Albert) Quinn
Hi Al, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I got started by watching my uncle paint and draw. It inspired me to do the same. Throughout my school years I was involved in crafts and art classes. In high school, Lincoln in Southeast San Diego, I was invited to attend a special art class for gifted students in the San Diego area. This was about 1963-64. I attended the senior art studio, a special 2 hour class and was part of the art club throughout my years at Lincoln High. After high school I began work full time with SDG&E,got married and raised two children. My time with SDG&E I got to know another San Diego based artist, Walter Redondo. This rekindled my love for art. Fast forward to about 2004 I found myself in a good place to begin my art again. Since that time I have taken many classes involving different medium forms and art methodology. Around 2017 I met Valentine Vianny, who owns an art studio/gallery L’Atelier on Reynard Way San Diego. She came to see my work and wanted to do an art show.. Since then I’ve participated in 5 different art shows. My most recent art show was at Valentines in this past November. I am currently working on a commission piece.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
No it has not been easy. My father did not want me to continue my education. He would only agree on a vocational nursing class which I attended at Mesa College when I graduated and got a job he made me quit my first day. It was hard trying to get back with my art. in 1969 I got married, the same year my father died. in Late 1969 I went to work for SDGE, the next year in 9/70 we had a baby…. I tried to get back with my art but it was hard. I continued to do small abstract paintings depicting my life from then until now. Even now all of my abstract paintings mimic my very hard life with a hard edge. And now, after 44 years of work, I’m able to paint full time in my own studio space.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Over the years it has become apparent that my drive to paint has been and continues to be the best therapy for dealing with a very difficult life. As my paintings have evolved over the years, I see how I have laid down my emotions on canvas. I paint from those emotions and also in those paintings is my love of the ocean and Southern California i.e. San Diego. I’m African American who loves the ocean and the SoCal life style.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
Honesty. Embrace what you love and who you are. Don’t fake it!
Pricing:
- $250-10,000
Contact Info:
- Instagram: acuez48
