Conversations with Patrick Wise

Today we’d like to introduce you to Patrick Wise

Hi Patrick, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
​Dear ​reader,

My passion for drawing began early in life and led to formal art training, including museum work at the Detroit Institute of Art and teaching Art and Design at the university and college levels. Throughout my career, I have been captivated by the human figure and its ability to convey the human experience through gesture, line, and color.

Upon returning to my hometown of Petoskey, Michigan in 2018, I established a Live Artist business and continue to exhibit my work in local galleries, along with accepting commissions. I am honored to have received the prestigious gold medal award on Mackinac Island, where I was also granted an artist residency to capture the island’s unique natural beauty. My artwork is proudly displayed in homes and businesses across the United States.

Currently, I draw inspiration from the people and places I encounter in my life and travels. I stay curious about myself and how I relate to the world, staying open to new truths of my ever changing realities of life.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My artistic journey has been filled with both challenges and joys. Many of these challenges stemmed from self-discovery and personal growth. Embracing sobriety nearly 23 years ago provided clarity and allowed me to shed aspects of my life that no longer resonated with my true self. While challenges persist, I am fortunate to have unwavering support and love that propel me forward in both my personal and artistic endeavors.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a painter, driven by a deep emotional response to the world around me and an internal need to communicate something intangible to the viewer. My work is primarily focused on the human figure, which I find endlessly fascinating in its ability to convey both universal relatability and infinite complexity. I am drawn to explore our potential for love and compassion through this vehicle.

While I specialize in oil paint and watercolor, I enjoy working in both large and small formats. I believe that my life experiences, with their lows, becoming addicted to alcohol and drugs, experiencing a sibling’s suicide, and the highs of overcoming my addictions, learning to walk through incredible pain and come through the other side have shaped my unique artistic perspective and set me apart as an intuitive and nuanced artist

I am most proud of my ability to translate raw emotion into visual form, inviting viewers to connect with their own depths.

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
I thrive in environments where I can bounce ideas off others and collectively create something meaningful. My past experiences in curating art shows, commissioning works, live wedding painting and facilitating art therapy demonstrate my openness to diverse collaborative projects. I’m constantly seeking new opportunities to engage with fellow creatives and explore uncharted territories.

I’d be delighted to discuss potential avenues for collaboration and see how our skills and interests might complement each other. Feel free to share any ideas or projects you have in mind.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.patrickkellywise.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patrickkellyart/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wisepainting/