I had the pleasure of speaking with an amazing artist I have gotten to know over the past several years in the art scene in Richmond, VA. I have purchased several paintings from him that I have used to decorate my own home. Each piece he designs tells a story and is always the center of attention and talk when anyone visits my home. Since seeing his artwork, I have greatly appreciated a different aspect of art. I respect his talent, hard work, and determination. I would like to give a warm welcome and introduction to: Tre Artz!!
Tre Artz is a self-taught local abstract artist from Petersburg, VA. He was a military brat, originally born and raised on the West Coast (Seattle, WA). Tre Artz is no stranger to the art atmosphere, as he was heavily involved in drama and art in high school. He even began to dive into sculpting work. He also started experimenting with making face masks out of papier mâché (which masks are now a huge staple in his artwork today).
Tre Artz has several artists that have influenced his incredible work. His main influencers are Paul Jackson Pollock and Jean-Michel Basquiat. Pollock, an American painter, was a huge figure in the abstract expressionist movement. He was widely known for his “drip technique”, which consists of pouring or splashing liquid paint on a surface. Basquiat, also an American artist, became successful in the Neo-expressionism movement. Basquiat’s art displayed not only abstraction but introspection of his experiences in the black community. These two artists have helped shape and mold Tre Artz into the artist that he is today. Tre Artz uses abstract as a way to express himself and makes it his signature move.
One of the best features of Tre Artz's pieces is his usage of face masks. For each piece, different emotions can be interpreted, depending on the person. Some of his pieces even glow the dark illusion embedded in the painting. Tre Artz puts his emotions heavily in his pieces, forcing conversation and in-depth thought of what is or may be depicted in his work of art.
Tre Artz has used his art to get through some of the roughest experiences and times of his life. At one point in his life, he was involved in a bad car accident. He not only lost his ability to draw but also lost his motivation to keep painting. But with time, he was able to get back to his passion and love for art. He even took the opportunity to go on a cruise, getting inspiration from the on-board art auctions (Park West Galleries) and seeing the large display of art from various artists.
Tre Artz has done several collaborations with local DC art groups in the past. His future goal is to work with the Park West Galleries. Tre Artz has an upcoming exhibition on December 8th at the 325 Brown Street Cameron Offices and Apartments Exhibit Hall in Petersburg, VA. He will be displaying 25 of his original pieces. It will be the event of the season. If you are in the area and would like to see such a talented artist and his abstract pieces, please come and share in this intimate and profound experience.
A quote from Tre Artz: “Remember to create and be great”.
Check out a recent news article about him:
https://www.wtvr.com/news/local-news/tre-simms-art-petersburg-november-24-2022
When is the next Tre Artz’s event:
Dec. 8th in Petersburg, VA
Get your tickets at the link below:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/an-evening-with-artz-by-tre-tickets-726013976347
How can we get in touch with Tre Artz?
- Instagram: @artzbytre
- Facebook: Artz By Tre
- Email: [email protected]
- Call/Text (804) 250-5519