Life & Work with Toby Strong of North Carolina

Today we’d like to introduce you to Toby Strong.

Hi Toby, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Since I was a young child, I only had one dream on my mind: immortality. Not in the literal sense, but through creating something that could live forever. Art became that for me.

I started with school pencils and printer paper, constantly drawing and trying to prove to others that this was more than just a phase. It was a dream. An American dream built on passion, storytelling, and the desire to leave something meaningful behind.

Like any dream, it took work. A lot of work. Every piece pushed me closer to understanding not only my craft, but myself. That journey opened doors I never imagined, allowing me to meet people and experience opportunities that younger me could only dream about. Through it all, I carried the mindset that if I was going to do this, I had to give the best of myself every single time.

Today, I don’t just make art. I create stories. My work builds worlds that explore identity, emotion, contradiction, and unity while revealing pieces of who I am along the way. At the core of everything I create is the hope that one day my work will truly be seen, remembered, and live forever.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
No, it definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Every road has holes, unfinished lanes, and detours.

Originally, I thought I would become a graphic designer like Alex Steinweiss, creating the new face of visuals for musicians and brands. But over time, I realized that only a handful of artists truly respect the power of visual storytelling. Many already have established creative teams, while others simply undervalue the craft altogether. Eventually, I became bored of what felt like “grey creativity” and found myself wanting something deeper and more personal. That led me back to painting after nearly five years away from it.

One of my biggest struggles has been being a first-generation artist. When no one around you truly understands the path you are trying to take, it becomes difficult for people to believe in the vision the same way you do. People may support you emotionally, but they often do not understand the significance of the work, how the art world operates, or how to help you get into certain spaces and opportunities.

Because of that, you hear a lot more doubt than confidence. You get pushed toward safer paths that have nothing to do with what you actually love. Sometimes people even project their own fears or limitations onto your dream. Learning how to stay committed to my vision despite all of that has probably been the hardest part of the journey, but it has also shaped me into the artist I am today.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a visual artist and storyteller who mainly works through painting and surrealist-inspired concepts. My work focuses on identity, emotion, and human experiences. I like creating pieces that make people stop, think, and come back for a second look.

I’m known for using strong symbolism, bold colors, and storytelling in my work. A lot of my paintings hold deeper meanings that can be interpreted in different ways depending on the viewer. Pieces like “American Boy,” “Sneaker Phone,” and “The Entertainer” all reflect different parts of my thoughts, experiences, and perspective on the world.

What I’m most proud of is finding my way back to painting after stepping away from it for years. Since returning, I’ve been able to build my own style, have my first solo exhibition, and connect with people through my work.

What sets me apart is that I don’t just paint images, I paint stories. I want every piece to feel meaningful and leave people thinking even after they walk away from it.

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
The greatest advice I can give is, to never wait on anyone to help push your career. There will be those that will help you and even say they want to help, however sometimes the help won’t get there for months to years. While you wait, make more connections in your area until something comes. Make time your best friend and not your enemy. Also, be realistic of where you are and who/what can help. Once you understand that part, the better connections will want to connect with you.

Pricing:

• American Boy- 2023 48×60 $2200
• Even the Devil has a Heart- 2026 48×60 $2000
• Sneaker Phone- 2026 36×48 $1200
• Death of a Nation- 2025 36×48 $1800
• A Heartbreak- 2024 48×60 $2100

Contact Info:

• Website: Www.itsjustyart.com (under construction)
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsjustyart?igsh=MWEzNmIxMmdsdTkwZQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tytheartiist?_r=1&_t=ZP-96RWM8PlbWp