Our individual and collective histories are made up of fragments of information and experiences that we piece together in different ways. According to former professional athlete, visual artist, and 2022 Not Real Art Grant winner Kiley Ames, these fragments can be re-arranged and re-interpreted to create our own perceptions of reality. Using small, distinct strokes of color to form an image from a distance, Kiley’s impressive painting technique evolved from the realization that “good art” isn’t necessarily photorealistic. In addition to her own studio practice, which also incorporates sculpture, drawing, printmaking, and photography, Kiley was a freelancer at Annie Leibovitz Studio for the better part of a decade. In today’s episode, we sit down with Kiley in her studio at the Beacon Arts Building to discuss the importance of being true to oneself, embracing duality, redefining success, and using art as a means to facilitate quiet discussions about serious issues. Kiley also shares how working with Annie Leibowitz taught her that even great artists don’t always get it right the first time, how humor (particularly Seinfeld) helps her cope, and why young artists need to learn to fall in love with the process, plus so much more! For Kiley, reinterpreting the fragments of her experiences thus far has allowed her to build a rewarding and fulfilling art career that isn’t restricted to one particular style or medium, and she encourages other artists to stay open to exploration, whatever form it takes. Tune in for a fascinating and uplifting conversation with the one and only Kiley Ames!Key Points From This Episode:The welcoming community and support system that Kiley found at Beacon Arts Building.Challenges with networking in the art world and how Kiley has built relationships.Why it’s difficult to properly appreciate her paintings in pictures or online.How Kiley found her artistic voice and developed her unique visual style.Some insight into who Kiley is and how she embraces duality.What being a professional athlete taught her about discipline and redefining success.A look at Kiley’s creative process (which doesn’t involve sketchbooks!)Her most recent body of work and what it represents, and what she’s working on now.Kiley’s take on why lawmakers are focused on drag shows and not gun control.Ways that art can facilitate less combative discussions about very serious issues.Advice for navigating the art world, staying on budget, and applying for artist grants.The impact COVID had on Kiley as an artist, and how the ocean helped her personally.Lessons and personal reflections from Kiley’s experience of working with Annie Leibowitz.Words of wisdom for young artists: learn to fall in love with the process!Why artists shouldn't restrict themselves to just one medium.The stories that Kiley is trying to tell through her work and her approach to titles.For more information, please visit http://notrealart.com/kiley-ames