Meet Bill Taylor | WB Taylor Fine Art

We had the good fortune of connecting with Bill Taylor and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Bill, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I’ve always had an interest in the Arts. When I was in 3rd grade, I won 2nd place in an art contest at school. As a young child being recognized for something that came natural to me and that I enjoyed doing was the best feeling. In my teens I became a bit more serious about painting, illustration, and created my first logo design. I went on to study Fine Art and Illustration at California State University Long Beach and Art Center College of Design. Soon after, I knew I wanted to continue in a creative path and put my entrepreneurial spirit to work. For the next 42 years of my life I built and operated a successful logo, corporate identity and design studio. I’ve worked with many different companies curating the perfect logo and branding that could be instantly recognizable and remembered by an audience. I am proud of the accolades and awards I have received over the years as a designer and it is gratifying to still see many of the logos that I created still standing strong. In 2010 I decided to step back and reevaluate the direction I wanted to go in, this is when my artistic painting journey began. I had remodeled my home to a more contemporary design, with that included a stainless-steel fireplace hearth and surround. I knew that I wanted a painting displayed on the stainless steel to balance this new element in my home. I pulled out the paint brushes and canvas and I knew that this was exactly what I wanted to do for the rest of my days. In case you’re wondering, that first painting was of John Coltrane. As a Jazz connoisseur I could not think of a better subject. The piece was created with oil paint on canvas. The artwork had a lot of texture and it had just the right amount of soul, emotion, and color that was needed for this newly renovated area.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

I am an artist that specializes in abstract portrait paintings and wine inspired images. I’m known for capturing the energy and likeness that lies in my subjects. When viewing my work at a close range it becomes more abstract and as you move away, it falls into focus. I work with oil on a larger scale canvas, at least 3’ square or larger. Some of my most admired work is through commissions where I have the opportunity to work with collectors to create one of a kind works of art that is personal to them. It is an honor and quite humbling when the finished pieces are met with heartfelt gratitude and awe.

When you are in business for yourself there are always ups and downs. What I try to do in a slow period is think of how I can be more creative and apply that thought process for when business picks up. Fortunately, my business career has been very steady.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If I had a friend visiting the area, the first place that I would take them is The Winery Restaurant. They have 3 locations, Tustin, Newport Beach, and La Jolla. Aside from their fine cuisine, their wine offerings are incredible! In addition, I have many of my oil paintings on display at all 3 locations.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The one person that I owe my success to is my beautiful wife. She has supported and encouraged me to do what I love. Her strength, courage, kindness and resilience inspires me to be a better person and artist.

Website: www.wbtaylorfineart.com

Instagram: @wbtaylor_fineart

Facebook: @wbtaylorfineart

Other: https://www.pinterest.com/WBtaylorfineart/