Taylor Givan shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Taylor , it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
Integrity is everything
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a painter and illustrator from Kansas City, now based in Florida, though I still think of myself as someone who’s just figuring it out as I go. Most of my work centers around portraits, surreal scenes, and the human figure, often with a lot of blue worked in, not on purpose at first, but it’s kind of become my thing.
I didn’t set out to be an artist. A few years ago, I was living in a motel room during the pandemic, trying to pass the time, and I started sketching old cartoons I grew up with. That small decision ended up leading to painting, and it’s been a steady process of learning, experimenting, and finding my own voice ever since.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
Trust. Damaging someone’s trust is one of the easiest ways to break a bond. It’s also one of the hardest things to get back.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering builds resilience. When you do find success you’re able to track back to the suffering and see how far you’ve come. It puts things in perspective and makes success sweeter.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
My brother, Blake. He’s one of the only people I’ve ever met who is always, 100% of the time, true to character. Has always stayed true to his himself, his beliefs, and the people he cares about. People like that you know you can count on.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
Regarding painting or making something, I definitely feel most at peace when it’s finished. I know a lot of people zen out during the actual painting process but it can be more of an anxious race against nothing in my head (unless there’s an actual deadline). So looking at it when it’s done brings peace for sure.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @tgivanart
