Today, we’d like to introduce you to Wendell Supreme Shannon.
Hello Wendell Supreme Shannon, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
During my time studying business administration at Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland, I encountered a significant hurdle when I was diagnosed with multiple autoimmune diseases. This led to a medical withdrawal from school, and I even lost the use of my hand for two years due to symptoms from my condition. However, I refused to let these challenges define me. Through therapy, I worked tirelessly to relearn basic skills such as writing letters, numbers, and drawing shapes, which ignited my passion for art.
Upon entering remission, I founded Solely Supreme LLC, a venture that quickly gained attention for its captivating geometric abstract paintings, showcased internationally and supported by self-funded community projects. As my career flourished, I forged key partnerships and expanded the reach of my art, leading programs in Baltimore’s school system and mentoring aspiring creatives. Alongside my public art projects, I delved into product development and design, demonstrating a knack for innovation and versatility.
Over the past 12 years, I have continually defied limitations, elevating my artistry while prioritizing community engagement. Now, I bring my wealth of experiences and expertise to the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA), where I am enrolled in an accelerated program pursuing my Master’s of Business in Art and Design. My journey exemplifies perseverance and creativity, showcasing how adversity can be transformed into opportunity and success.
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
When pursuing aspirations and dreams, challenges and obstacles are inevitable.
Personally, encountering resistance or being told that my ideas were too ambitious has always fueled my motivation. Instead of being discouraged, I viewed these setbacks as opportunities to channel my energy into devising creative solutions for any and all concepts.
While it’s certainly not a straightforward path, adopting the mindset of “Find a way or make one” has significantly enhanced my effectiveness. Additionally, surrounding myself with a supportive team has proven invaluable in overcoming hurdles and achieving success.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in crafting geometric abstract designs high in vibrancy and color usage.
This initially began as fine art but has since evolved into encompassing interior and exterior murals, as well as product design and textile fabrication. Each original painting is meticulously created over a period ranging from 2 to 14 months, with unwavering attention given to every intricate detail.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
As an artist, I’m naturally drawn to constant learning, exploration, and adventure because I believe they serve as the lifeblood of creativity. Each new experience, whether it’s venturing into uncharted territories, delving into different cultures, or experimenting with innovative techniques, fuels my imagination and infuses my work with fresh inspiration. Every journey I embark on becomes a treasure trove of ideas waiting to be translated onto my canvas, enriching my artistic expression and pushing the boundaries of my creativity.
Moreover, I have a strong aversion to limitations or negative topics and discussions because they stifle my artistic freedom and dampen my enthusiasm for creation. As someone who thrives on pushing boundaries and exploring new horizons, restrictions feel like chains that hinder my ability to fully realize my artistic vision. Negative energy or pessimistic conversations create a cloud of negativity that disrupts my creative flow and hampers my ability to connect with my work on a deeper level. Instead, I prefer to surround myself with positivity and optimism, focusing on the endless possibilities that lie ahead and allowing my art to reflect the beauty and joy found in life.
In essence, my passion for constant learning and exploration drives me to seek out new experiences and perspectives, which I then channel into my artwork. By embracing a mindset of openness and positivity, I am able to create art that not only resonates with others but also serves as a source of inspiration and empowerment for myself and those around me.
Contact Info:
- Website: wssfineart.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wss_fineart/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WSSFINEART/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wssfineart
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@wssfineart
Image Credits
@kevinewingphoto, @photoxphonzo, and @jprcreate
