Today we’d like to introduce you to Duncan Spear.
Duncan, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
Growing up in Southern California definitely gave me a unique insight on life but it’s hard for me to say that that was the defining factor that led me to where I am now. I didn’t always care about surfing, and I certainly didn’t care for the ocean. But when you grow up in a place that thrives off of that culture, I think it’s hard not to let it be apart of you in some way. When I moved to Georgia in high school, it’s almost as if the longing to be back in that culture consumed me. From then on, it was easy for me to decide what I wanted to be. When I moved back to California in college, surf photography became my entire world. I did it nearly everyday and thought about it probably every minute of my life. Of course, it was sort of new to me because of my past. My sole dream was to be the best surf photographer you knew. So I tried. I took a job with a dream company, and after a week of discussing my role, I was dropped without even a call or an email. I was devastated and decided to quit for half a year. It was dumb, and I let what happened take over all of my feelings towards the ultimate dream. I realized if I were to completely take this on, that I would need to challenge myself somewhere else. That’s when I moved to Atlanta to live with my sisters and attend a portfolio school for photography. It was great for a year, but it wasn’t enough. Suddenly my dream of being a surf photographer didn’t feel big enough. Having a dad in the advertising industry and family in the world of creativity, I knew I could be pushed to be something bigger than that. So, for the past year, I’ve been attending The Creative Circus in Atlanta. It’s been the hardest challenge of my life, but the best one yet. I’m not sure where I’ll end up in a year or what life will be like, but I can guarantee I’ll be a car ride away from the ocean.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
I believe there are two sides to me “art.” My love for surf photography is my overall passion, but I love creating and concepting. Being at a school where we are challenged to make bold advertisements and create designs that challenge the norms of society or fit perfectly is what gets me so excited to open up my notebook.
My surf photography is, in my opinion, a view on how I see it. The ocean is tremendous, scary, and thrilling. I’ve always felt that there was a lack of respect for what it really is. Surfing is the same way to me. It’s an art form. The ability to ride a wave is something I would wish everyone could experience. I try to do my best to give that with my photos.
My design work is more of an escape for me, but also hopefully an influence. I’ve always been inspired by companies like Nike who can make an incredible design work and at the same time influence millions. That’s what I hope I can give to people when they see my work. While my ad work is more humorous and fun, my design work is where I feel the most free of judgment and expectation.
In your view, what is the biggest issue artists have to deal with?
In a world of social media, I think many creatives feel like it’s all about getting likes and comments. In my opinion, that’s the wrong recognition. Honestly, sometimes I feel it’s the worst place to display work. Social media is very curated and trendy. My dad has always told me that one of the biggest problems with being a creative is selling yourself. I’ve been slowly discovering that along the way. So, ultimately I think the biggest challenge is being true. Forget what is popular and create what makes your heart pound.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
Most of my favorite work is on my Instagram (duncanspear) and my website (duncanspear.com). Rarely I will put my work on display. Only if I’m feeling very confident. But I love for people to experience my work in person to when asked.
Contact Info:
- Website: duncanspear.com
- Phone: 8183228088
- Email: duncanspear1@gmail.com
- Instagram: duncanspear
Image Credit:
Red and Blue lion image taken by Rog Walker.
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