Reaching, expanding, and reaching for more—the non-complacent approach of Cedric Ingram

If you read even a handful of quotes from top athletes’, you’ll quickly draw comparison to Cedric Ingram’s approach to art . . . and life in general.

“If it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you.” – Fred Devito

What are you presently inspired by?

Right now I'm inspired by anything that makes me think or wonder. That could be thinking of an artist's technique and how they achieved what they created, or it could be hearing music that takes me through some strong range of emotion. I'm a sucker for moods that are established in the setting of an artwork especially. I guess I'm all about new experiences. In relation to my work, I try incorporate some of these qualities to have the viewer leave with some lasting experience.

You teach drawing in high school. What does it mean to you?

Yes, I teach high school drawing in Katy, TX (just outside of Houston). I told myself in high school that I was going to teach art because I felt that I wasn't challenged enough by one of my art teachers, Ms. Peterson. It was, and is, my objective to prepare and challenge students interested in art for the next level in their work. It's special because, of course, art is my passion I get to share what I do with students. You know how they say, when you do what you love, its like not working at all.

What led you to art?

Well, I have been drawing since I was about five years old. I remember the first thing that I drew was a horse. I was so proud of it. Going through grade school, I would always have fellow students complimenting me on our art projects. I remember them standing and watching me draw. In high school, I would love when our work was displayed in the hallway and everyone would rave about the latest thing that I drew or painted or whatever.

I love to see everyone's responses and hear how my art makes them feel. For me it’s a big rush because you never know what to expect. Everyone sees things their own way, and its really exciting when others view your work and make you look at your work in a whole new perspective.

Who taught you the most about art?

Honestly, my whole art make up is built from a whole conglomeration of things not necessarily any person. I guess I could pull some artists out of the hat like Caravaggio and his dramatic chiaroscuro Renaissance paintings or anyone really from the Baroque period. I love realism and seeing a canvas, or in my case, illustration board brought to life.

Of course, we all can recall our trainings from art classes, but the thing that teaches me most is simply experiencing others' art. That could be fine art, music, writing, whatever. For example, my favorite all-time music group is The Isley Brothers. Making their mark in 1959 with "Shout" and being able to grow and adapt to change with their music to last over five decades is amazing. They were so versatile in their music and put together songs that were so powerful, soulful, and put a lot of emotion in their work.

I am always trying to grow with my craft and how I present it just as they have. I don't think an artist should ever continue to just be the same throughout time. We should challenge ourselves in our work and our ideals.

What is your greatest strength?

No doubt, my greatest strength is constantly challenging myself to do better. Never be complacent. Never be satisfied. Having said that, I am very competitive. I always ask myself, 'what can I do next?' This supports that constant growth I talked about earlier. I think this is just a good principle to live by as a person in general. What are you working towards in life? There is always the next thing. One up the last thing you did. Keep it moving.

Cedric Ingram is one of the talented artists you'll see at uBe Art and the juried exhibiton, From Where I Stand.

November 6 thru December 6.