Today we’d like to introduce you to BJ Royster.
BJ, before we jump into specific questions about your work, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I was born and raised in Miami; Mom always said I saw things different. I started out drawing mainly using a pencil and paper. As time went on, I started trying different types of mediums. It was acrylics I enjoyed the most.
In 1995 I overcame my fears of jumping out of a perfectly good boat into the unknown amazing underwater world by the support of my husband. After my very 1st dive, I knew what I wanted to do.
It was to become a photo realism marine life artist. My studio was in my home and my paintings started to sell by word of mouth. It was time to branch out, by entering art shows mainly on the east coast of Florida and the Florida Keys. Local galleries started representing my works. Soon there, where commission requests from clients for me to create a painting just for them. I have had the opportunity to paint with Wyland on many occasions, was in a torment show with Guy Harvey, and did reference work with Don Ray. I couldn’t believe the opportunities that have come my way by overcoming my fears of diving. My artwork has become a voice of education, protection and conservation of our very important Florida Reefs.
Art takes people on a personal journey. I am one who is still at awe of the journey my art has personally taken me. Someone ask me a long time ago “You have only painted for the love of painting, what happens when you have to? “Today, I don’t have to paint. I choose to, only because I still love and want to paint. Twenty five years later, my works are around the world in private and public collections.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
The 1st was quitting a full time career to enter into the art world. Stepping out of my comfort zone, things like speaking in public, painting out of a lift bucket 50ft high off the ground, being in the lime light, keeping true to my vision and passion and painting what I love to paint. Opening my Gallery in Islamorada for nine years and still going strong today. BJ Royster Ocean Gallery.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I have been recognized as the foremost painter of the Florida Reefs. I also enjoy painting, mangroves, and birds, animals, landscapes, beaches and waves, sunrise to sunsets, mainly in a photo realism style. I mainly use my own experience and photos as references. Being a self-taught artist, I love to pass on my knowledge as instructor teaching in acrylics and oils in privet classes and workshops. I have the ability to paint on many surfaces and in different environments. Painting sizes from micro to the mural. Abstracts to Fine Art using palette Knife to brushes.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Credit goes to God, who gave me the gift of painting, the family who supported me in many ways and saw my gift of painting before I did. My husband helped me overcome my fears of diving and supported me in every step. Master Artist and friends Phil Capen and Don Ray, who said I was ready to step into the professional world of art. Credit goes to every person that looks at one of my paintings and smiles. To my seventh grade art teacher who said I would never be an accomplished artist.
Pricing:
- 1. Original art work $300.00 to $14,000.00
- 2. Reproductions $75.00 10 $3000.00
Contact Info:
- Address: BJ Royster Ocean Gallery
81650 Overseas Hwy
Islamorada Fl, 33036 - Website: www.bjroyster.com
- Phone: 386-569-6331
- Email: marineart@bjroyster.com
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