Bhare in his studio. Photo courtesy of the artist

This chef-turned-artist's creative process is ever-evolving.

Out of his home studio in North Carolina, Artwork Archive's Featured Artist Bhare creates traditional works on canvas, digital works, and designs on clothing and skateboards. 

Influenced by his upbringing in the DC/Metro area, Japanese animation, culinary experiences, and a profound desire for personal healing, Bhare's art tells a story that resonates with a broad audience. 

His abstract compositions offer a glimpse into his introspective world, where a palette of neutral tones meets pastels and dark hues. Working in layers, he gradually transforms fluid abstract forms into human-like figures. He then adds seemingly ordinary household objects, reflecting the feelings of being an introvert and the cyclical nature of being a homebody. 

Artwork Archive had the chance to chat with Bhare about his creative process rooted in his "addition and subtraction" method, what success means to him, and how Artwork Archive helps clients take his art business seriously.

You can see more of his work on Discovery and learn more about his art practice below. 

Bhare in his studio. Photo courtesy of the artist

Do you have a favorite or most satisfying part of your process?  

My process involves journaling, painting, switching mediums, and an addition/subtraction method.

Right now, my favorite part is the addition/subtraction method. To create a sense of balance between my colors and illustrations, I add as much as I can and then "subtract" once it’s too full.

Not only am I creating layers of illustrations and paint but I’m learning new ways to break apart the composition.

It's a longer part of the process than when I first started painting, but I enjoy having an idea that is ever-shifting alongside the artwork. 

 

You mention your addition/subtraction method as an integral part of your creative process. How do you decide when to add elements and when to remove them?

It comes as a feeling most times.

I’ll notice as I’m building up the artwork, adding, adding, and adding more elements that it becomes too much. Then I’ll switch to removing those elements.

I view it like a see-saw, one side always weighing it a bit more than the other. The process involves finding that middle ground that really allows the elements to shine and bring an emphasis to the overall story. 

Bhare, Grey Goose and Snakes, Digital Native Acrylic Painting 

Can you speak more about the role technology plays in your art? 

Most commonly, I merge the two techniques: the traditional and digital.

I often start the painting on a traditional canvas, building it up until I feel as if the work is in a good place.

The canvas is then scanned and uploaded into my program of choice. Digital techniques are then used to add more layers to the artwork. 

Sometimes, I even have the digital and the traditional artwork end in different directions.

I consider technology as another tool in my pocket as an artist, allowing my artistry to grow outside of my initial expectations. 

 

What impact do you hope your work will have on those who view it? 

I want to hear them talking! If my art does anything, I want it to spark conversation.

Discussion fosters insights and new perspectives on my art that I initially didn’t think of.

As a growing artist, very early into my career, I find these insights extremely useful to understanding how others perceive symbols, colors, etc.

People will remember a good conversation over a quick glance at the artwork. At least that’s what I think.

Bhare, Lone Star Ranger, 24 x 30 x 1 in

What does success as an artist mean to you? 

For me, success as an artist is reaching financial stability and higher emotional intelligence.

Art started as a way to comb through my emotions and make sense of my current reality. Years after I first started, I began to pursue a career in art, leading me to where I am today. 

I want to be able to travel the world freely, using my artwork to open new doors. There is so much beyond my four white walls—it would feel like a waste not to try and pursue it. I’m confident that art will lead me to experience all different walks of life. 

 

How do you handle creative blocks as an artist?

Sometimes, I just push through creative blocks, and other times I switch up the medium that I’m working with.

A lot of my creative blocks have come from battling waves of depression—those moments feel like endless weight.

My motivation to keep on comes from practicing giving myself grace.

Not everything will work out as I envisioned—some things will just simply be out of my control. As long as I don’t lose the spark of joy that creating brings me, there will always be light at the end of the tunnel. 

Bhare, Where He Stays, 61 x 63 in

Why did you decide to use Artwork Archive to inventory/manage your artwork? 

I landed on using Artwork Archive because I take my practice seriously.

I don’t have a huge team or gallery backing my practice, so I need to take steps to prepare for any opportunity. The platform is an easy plug-and-play for any information I need to input for my artwork.

It's also simple enough that when I do get to the point of having staff, they'll be able to pick it up easily. 

 

How do you use Artwork Archive on a daily basis? 

I use Artwork Archive to help me track what I do with my physical paintings before and after shipment, but my most used feature is creating reports on the go.

When I'm traveling or just out on the town, it’s easy to pull information for any inquiries quickly.

It gives my business a professional look and lets my clients know that I’m taking what I do seriously.

 

What advice would you give an artist who’s just starting out in their professional career? 

Make a long-term plan!

It’s easy to see the success of other artists and creatives online and assume it happened overnight. But, success is the result of careful planning and so many other factors.

It will be hard, seemingly impossible sometimes, but there is an audience out there for your creativity. Just like everyone else, you deserve a shot to pursue the art that you want.

Bhare, Our Romantic Comedy: Physical, 36 x 48 in

Bhare uses Artwork Archive to catalog his artwork, present himself professionally, and a lot more.

You can make an online portfolio, catalog your artwork, and generate reports like inventory reports, tear sheets, and invoices in seconds with Artwork Archive. Take a look at Artwork Archive's free trial and start growing your art business.