Conversations with Phoebe Guice

Today we’d like to introduce you to Phoebe Guice. 

Hi Phoebe, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
I started making art at a very young age. I always wanted to be an artist and a creative. I started painting in high school and took private art lessons in ceramics. When I went to Appalachian State University for my degree in Art Education, I wanted to try every kind of art they offered. I received a minor in metals smithing and jewelry design, but I took all kinds of classes like fibers, welding, photography, and printmaking. When I moved to Greenville, SC after school for an art teaching position, I got back into painting and started my Instagram page @pguiceart. Painting was a way for me to focus on my creative passions even outside of teaching. I started creating portraits of famous people and dogs. It wasn’t until 2 years ago that I discovered the beauty of oil painting and I’ve been using it ever since. It’s like painting with butter. In August of 2021, I moved to Raleigh, NC for an art teaching position at St. Timothy’s School. I continue to take commissions and explore in my daily practice of art and painting. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
With painting, there is always room to learn more and grow. I think one thing that has been challenging is comparing myself to other artists and creatives. But I have to keep pushing and growing and taking their works as inspiration for where I can grow my own business and practice. I am my own worse critic and comparison is the death of creativity. I try to see how far I have grown and keep looking to my goals of growing my business and talents. 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
During the daytime, I am a middle school art teacher. In the afternoons I am a commissioned oil painter. I specialize in dog and people portraits. On the side, I like to teach adult painting classes at Wine and Design in downtown Raleigh. I am most proud of my ability to recreate a photo with a paintbrush. What sets me apart from others is my ability to work with my clients to create their desired picture. I love working with clients and discussing their vision. The reward of blessing someone with an original work of art that commemorates a loved one or pet is the cherry on top. 

Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
Clients primarily reach me through Instagram. They will send photos of their pet or designed portrait and I discuss with them what is possible and what would look the best. We talk about deadlines, sizing, and pricing as well. I love when people spread the word about my works or even comment and like posts. That helps my business grow, even if they don’t buy a painting. 

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: @pguiceart
• Other: https://www.redbubble.com/people/pguiceart/shop?asc=u

Image Credits:
Phoebe Guice