We recently had the chance to connect with Eric Dixon and have shared our conversation below.
Eric, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What are you chasing, and what would happen if you stopped?
Right now I’m chasing my dream of being a full time artist. Over the years I’ve done art part time. I had some success over the years, but I want to see how far I can take it. If I stopped I wouldn’t know what to do. I’ve only wanted to be one thing. Sure I’ve tried a multitude of other things. It has always come back to being an artist.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Eric Dixon. I’m an artist from NC. I am a professional artist based out of Raleigh, NC. I have gallery exhibitions, live paintings and publications under my belt since 2012. My art focuses on vibrant colors, bold lines and dope compositions. Which have been influenced by cartoons, comics books, graffiti, tattoos and graphic design. . I am the owner and lead designer of a brand called Kanary Barnes. Kanary Barnes is about being bold, authentic and amazing illustrations. Right now I am working on several projects. I recently created a coloring book Kanary Barnes coloring book vol. 1. I am working on illustrations for vol. 2. I have designed clothing collections to drop in the near future. Also I’m working on painting and character designs for comics or cartoons.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
The moment that really shaped how you see the world. Originally I’m from Wilmington, NC. I lived with my grand parents. Not far from my grandparents house was Michael Jordan’s house ( where he grew up in Wilmington). During the 80′, 90’s Michael Jordan was a world star. I kept thinkin how popular he was and yet I rode past the house he grew up in. Seeing where he grew up being not far from where I lived made any seem possible. I Still tell myself the same thing then as I do know. “If he can do something he loves then I can too.”
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
I would say success is the biggest fear to hold me back. I often have imposter syndrome. I often wonder if I’m really worthy of some accolades under my belt. I believe being successful you have to maintain a certain level or be consistent. Sometimes I fear falling short.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would say love, loyalty, expression, family, spending time with people I love matter to me. I only have love, loyalty, honesty, respect and kindness to give, It matters that I give them freely to everyone I come across.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people tell stories of how I made them laugh, made them feel special, was a great brother and friend. I hope people tell stories of my knucklehead adventures and that I had the courage to pursue my dreams. Most importantly of how I loved them.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kanarybarnes.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/e_dixon_kb
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-dixon-607a3049/
Image Credits
Photos by Victor McKinley
