Paul Dorrell is the Author of the updated and revised book, Living the Artist's Life.
He has been the owner of The renowned Leopold Gallery in Kansas City since 1991, a Fine Art Dealer and Artist's Representative.
I hope you enjoy our conversation below and images from some of the artist's he represents.
His book truly can apply not only to Artists, also Writers, to Designers, Architects, really any Entrepreneur who realizes that one must follow their dreams. and what it takes to do just that! Living the Artist's Life is bold, part memoir, and even humorous at times.
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| Event at the Leopold Gallery |
1)
Paul, I
understand that you opened The Leopold Gallery to support your true avocation of
being a writer. Were you surprised that indeed you became a renowned Gallery
Owner, Art Dealer and Author?
Very
surprised, as that was certainly not the plan--but such is life for most of
us.
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| Allen Chow |
2)
You have
represented major artists; painters, sculptors, fine glass blowers. Do you
develop an innate sense that an aspiring artist will become successful? What do
you look for?
From
some I look for outrageousness, others a firm rooting in great artistic
traditions, others a profound sense of abstraction or craft. Of course I can’t
always tell who will succeed, but my staff and I usually have a fairly good
sense about it.
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| Kansas University Medical Center |
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3)
How do you
help artists turn their left brains on to be able to deal with the business side
of being an artist?
We
just guide them, step by step, in ways that don’t intrude on their creativity
but that do enhance their career. I mean if I can do it, as a writer, anybody
can.
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| Presentation and Book Signing |
4)
In your
book, “Living the Artist’s Life”, you very candidly describe the highs and lows,
the extreme struggles and the huge successes that you, yourself have
experienced. Why is this so relevant to the working artist?
Because the vast majority of artists often feel, at various times, that they’re
failing—as do most people. I feel it’s important that they realize how common
that experience is, as that can be reassuring.
5)
Which are
some of the Art Installations you are most proud of?
All
the big works—blown glass, paintings, sculptures—at H&R Block, University of
Kansas Hospital, Saint Luke’s Hospital, and the Overland Park Convention
Center. Also the National D-Day Memorial.
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| Portion of H & R Block Installation |
6)
You
describe corporations today as being like The Medici’s of the Renaissance Art
Period. Can you tell us more about that? How does this affect
communities?
Corporations have resources for buying art that far outstrip what most
individuals can spend at this time in history. This means they can have a huge
impact on the culture of their region if they’ll work with regional artists—and
not try to dictate the art. That is somewhat similar to what the Medici family
did in Italy.
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| Derrick Breidenthal |
7)
Paul you
have had many travels, far and wide. What compelled you to come back to Kansas
City to work and raise your family?
This
place has always been home to me, and I was acutely aware when we opened, in
1991, that it felt culturally inferior to the larger cities on the two coasts,
as though people here were not as talented. I wanted to help put an end to
that, as it was impeding the cultural and artistic growth of the region. My
clients, both corporate and private, have helped us in that
mission.
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| Matt Kirby |
8)
Finally
what words of wisdom would you impart to the artist of any age or
genre?
Never
give up, never give up, never give up.
Thank you so much Paul for taking the time with us!
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| Paul's New Book, Living the Artist's Life |
I hope you have enjoyed this interview with Paul. He has made a huge impression on the landscape, the recognition of art and its importance in our world!
This is an International Giveaway, so please, all can Enter
1) Enter for an opportunity to win a signed copy of Living The Artist's Life by visiting The Leopold Gallery site and tell us an artist who inspires you! There are many not shown here!
You may also order a copy or copies (great Gift for an Artist Friend or yourself)
The winner will be chosen on December 16th at Midnight EST!
Thanks to all of my Friends,Family, and Followers!
xoxo
Karena
Art by Karena
