We recently caught up with our buddy, Nashville-based painter Shane Miller, whose work we’ve highlighted before (in fact, we’re currently selling one of his pieces on our site). Shane is an extraordinarily talented artist, known primarily for his evocative—and hauntingly beautiful—abstract landscapes. Beyond his work, Shane is an all-around awesome dude, so we’re always excited to chat with him about what inspires him, his favorite gear, and his life in Nashville.
Shane, thanks for taking the time to chat with us. You’ve been a friend and ambassador of the TS brand for a while, but could you tell us a bit about yourself for those who aren’t already familiar with your work?
Hey there, of course. My name is Shane Miller and I’m a full-time artist based in Nashville, TN. My work primarily focuses on painting abstract landscapes that feel as if I’m recalling a distant dream or memory.
What initially led you to start painting? Was it something you always knew you wanted to do growing up?
Ever since I can remember I’ve been sketching. I think the love comes from knowing there are no rules or limits to what can be imagined or created. Realizing I could make a living from my art came later in life, but I think finding our true passion is a journey on which we all embark.
Where do you draw inspiration from? Are there any other artists/creatives that influence your work?
Most of my inspiration comes from living life, really. To me, painting is a sort of meditation. As humans, we all feel basic emotions through our daily lives. I try to use these general landscapes as links for the viewer to connect with their own emotions while viewing my work. J.M.W. Turner is one of my inspirations. He pioneered landscape painting in the early 1800’s and his work was less about realism and more about the power of imaginative landscapes.
Do you find any parallels between the way you dress and your artwork?
I do. Most of my work is non-chromatic, much like my wardrobe. Greys, tans, navys, and browns can stay.
This might be hard to answer, but do you have a favorite piece that you’ve painted?
There’s a piece I painted back in early 2017 that I still think about at times. It sold to a collector, but it is one I wish I had kept.
What do you enjoy most about living in Nashville? Did you grow up in Tennessee or move there later on?
I grew up in Maryland, but I’ve lived in Nashville for seven years or so. I enjoy the people in Nashville the most. It is not uncommon to meet individuals who’ve found their path and are following it with extreme focus. It’s very inspiring.
Rye or Bourbon?
Rye for sure. Bourbon is a bit sweet and rye is more dynamic in my opinion.
What’s one article of clothing you can’t live without?
That’s a tough one. Probably The Mechanic Shirt in Olive Reverse Sateen. I love the fit and the material and wear that shirt way too often.
Lastly, what’s one piece of advice for someone who’s looking to get into painting?
I would say there’s no substitution to painting every day. Researching different techniques and approaches is great, but ultimately it was through trial and error that I found my style and what I am passionate about. No amount of advice will come close to the physical act of painting. The joy of creating a piece of which you’re truly proud, the frustration of completely botching a canvas, all the hours, days, months, years spent painting will define your art. There’s no better time to start than now.
