In this edition of the “SoulShine” Series, I am extremely happy to spotlight a very talented artist and all-around great guy (who just so happens to be from my hometown and fellow Southern Miss alum…did I also mention we’re related?!) Vixon Sullivan is one of the most artistic individuals I know. He hand-crafts some of the most beautiful and intricate pottery, sculptures, and jewelry (Yes, Ladies…I said jewelry!) I have ever seen. His wearable art is truly one-of-a-kind! Take a look at these lovely flower studs I purchased from him last year at the Women’s Expo! In all the he does, his goal is to “work toward building a more artful community. A place where people can express themselves, teach, learn, share, and inspire!”
Here is more about my cousin, go-to artist, and friend, Vixon in his own words:
Art fulfills my natural desire to perform and communicate with the world around me. My primary reason for creating art is to provide personalization to ordinary spaces. Additionally, I use my art to transmit my inner vision to the outer reality-to speak about what is important to me. When creating, I combine these two motives by reinforcing common symbols and personal functionality.
Flowers are my main inspiration. These small miracles symbolize beauty, individuality, liberality, and locality. I am intrigued by their growth process, how they decorate fields, and how we give them as a symbol of endearment. Inspired by my love of flowers and passion for nature, it is my intention to create a memorable experience of style and color. Specifically, I am inspired by the strong, elegant magnolia, and each piece from the Magnolia Collection is one of a kind. Working in ceramics gives the delicate subject matter a durability and strength. Each sculpture is handcrafted of porcelain. The smooth nature of porcelain allows me to capture the delicate characteristics and the intricate details of the flower. These magnolia sculptures take on a different function to satisfy fashion, home decor, and collectible needs. Whether the sculpture is the size of a coin or width of a tire, my intentions are to mimic the sentiment of giving a bouquet of flowers. Sculpting these specialized pieces demonstrates my individuality as well as the pride I feel for my Southern heritage.
Here are some of Vixon’s community involvements:
President of the South Mississippi Art Association
Worked with Hattiesburg Arts Council and Hattiesburg Alliance for Public Art to build the little library
March of Dimes Charity Auction
Pink Ribbon Fund sponsor
Pine Belt Junior Auxiliary auction
If you would like to view and possibly purchase some of Vixon’s amazing work, check out his Facebook and/or Instagram pages. You may also visit his website (coming October 2016.)
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/vixon.sullivan
Instagram handle: vixonsullivan
Website (coming October 2016:) http://www.vixonsullivan.com
Please join me in thanking Vixon for “being the light!”