While most artist are looking for galleries to display their art, Samod Wilson has decided to take his art beyond the four walls. He has been able to not only showcase, but share his love of art with many in the community that may have never walked into a gallery. From barber shops, to night clubs, poetry shows, and art drops (randomly giving away art in random places.) Samod calls what he does "Painting on Purpose" and this New Jersey born artist,(raised in Fayetteville, NC) grew up in a single parent household, which would later shape his choice of imagery. When Samod started drawing, he was 4 years old and his favorite characters, Garfield and Superman. He remembers that "The TV show that taught me the most about art at that age was "Pappyland". I tend to use Art an outlet to define my emotions whether I'm happy, Sad, flustrated..." he says with a smile, "Art has been honestly my best friend and my communicator. Its if I'm going through something and I know it has to be shared I would just tell the pencil to tell the paper and the picture tell the people. As an artist I'm easily inspired even by the smallest thing." There was never a shortage of inspiration, "Some the artist and people that I looked up to are Walt Disney (his imagination), Steve Jobs (as an innovator), Jean-Michel Basquiat (His dedication) and Sean Combs (his drive and passion), My grandmother and mother (Their strength,courage and faith)" In looking at his art you see how the people he looks up become immortalized in large shapes, bold outlines and always wearing the gold crown, he places in almost every art piece." Mostly all my artwork is based on empowering, motivating, and inspiring each and every person to recognize themselves as greatness especially women. We live in a world where everything seems to be so degrading especially towards women so I just want to do the opposite." This shows in his work, as he used complex pencil work, rich colors and layered brush strokes that create the fluid movement of a garment, all the way down to detail in complex background. "Growing up in a single parent household I always took on a greater responsibility than the average child trying to be that role model for my siblings through all the trials and tribulations that we've faced. Plus I'm always determined for greater and there is always room for greater." Samod keeps striving for greater, painting artist J. Cole, scenes from "The Wiz" and Misty Copeland. He has been able to reach beyond the four walls can connect with the artist he has made art out of. Not only has he been able to create a following with his traveling galley, he teaches art classes and instructs the next generation of artist. "I use to draw maybe 10 to 12 pictures in a year but ever since the tragic fire that caused the death of my little sister & Father a few years back, I have painted and drawn over 100-150 pictures maybe more. It was then that I realized life is short and if you have a gift then you should share as much as you can with the world while your here. Its never really been about making money for me. For me it's all about helping you, help me and that's what I call "Painting On Purpose" Samod can be found creating a coloring book, teaching art classes, and creating artwork that shows the purpose he paints.