Troy Osborne Pryor on mastering his craft and artistic purpose

Photo courtesy of Troy Osborne Pryor
Photo courtesy of Troy Osborne Pryor

Troy Osborne Pryor is the founder and CEO of Creative Cypher and Troy Pryor Studios. Here, he discusses his craft and artistic purpose.


  • Do you most often actively seek inspiration or does it find you? Or is there a combination of the two?

It’s a combination. Inspiration is everywhere; it’s more about what you do once you receive it.


There is nothing new under the sun, so being observant enough to position oneself in the right place with the right energy will inevitably attract what you’re looking for.

  • What led you to art in general and to your art form(s) in particular?

God. I don’t believe one can become an artist. Your imagination is a gift…and a burden. My process has been very organic. I was a child artist, always curious and willing to try new things. One art form simply lead to the next but my mind has always been the same….I just have bills now.


  • Have you and your artistry ever been involved in traditional business? If so, how?

Sure, I remember designing logos and selling art at a younger age. I’ve produced and directed several commercials, films, as well as been hired as a design consultant and public speaker for companies.

  • In addition to mastering their art, what other do you recommend that artists develop if they want to be successful?

Communication! I’ve worked with some talented artists that are bad communicators, which can make or break a project. Being on the same page is of tremendous importance. Many of those artists I no longer work with and I hope the rest are reading this……..

  • How do you stay at the leading edge of your craft?

I love it and I want to be the best. I can’t help but remain a student and remain open to learning.

  • Do you think that there are any widely held misconceptions about art and/or artists? If so, what are they and how do you work to dispel them?

Nope, everything you think about artists is true….See that’s your imagination 😉 I don’t work to dispel anything, but I would like more people to have an open mind. Maybe we’d have more artists. There’s so much beauty around us all but closed minds usually miss out on much of it.

  • How do you map out your goals? How do you measure your success?

I write my goals down, look at them everyday, dream about them, and can recite them in my sleep…then I execute. True success is being happy. Where else can you go from there? Everything falls into place.

  • Who do you consider to be your peers in your field? Who do you see/use as examples for you to emulate?

My peers are those that understand; there’s more than enough to go around for all, collaboration is key. I am inspired by my fellow Chicago south sider — President Barack Obama, and giants like Bruce Lee, Jay-Z , Mark Wahlberg, Oprah, Russell Simmons and Keenan Ivory Waynes — my Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity brother.

  • Name two of your top role models: one in the art world and one from outside of it.

Bruce Lee and President Barak Obama…two very cool brothers.

  • Name three books, works, performances or exhibits that changed how you view life and/or yourself.

The Alchemist, Forest Gump, and Jordan playing with the Flu.

  • Why do you consider continued learning important?

If you’re not continually learning, what else are you doing?

  • What affirmations do you repeat to yourself that contribute to your success?

“It’s already yours” “Why not?”   “So what?” “Next?”

  • What role does art have in the community? What role would you like to see art play in the community?

It plays a huge role in the way we think. Art has transformed and built cultures so there is no denying its power. I believe there should be more art programs in schools.

  • What role does technology play in your day-to-day life? How do you utilize it?

Wait let me check this message. What did you say? [laughs] Oh yea, APPLE ALL-DAY!

  • What software, app or other technological innovation has made the biggest difference in your life and/or career?

My I-Phone.

  • Please define your personal brand.

I like to envision myself as the old guru with a long beard living at the top of mountain and other times as Leonidas from 300. Or Thor. I suppose I’m an infinitely curious guy always willing to try.

  • What is your favorite vacation destination and why?

The top of a mountain, Sparta, or Asgard. …but I really like south beach. They have really nice sand. J

  • If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be?

Ignorance

  • What does it take to be iconic? In your estimation, who has achieved that status?

It starts with just being yourself and following your heart. People follow those who know where they’re going? “Self- actualization my friend” – Bruce Lee

 

For more information, visit www.TROYPRYOR.COM or THECREATIVECYPHER.COM

Follow Pryor on social media:  @troyopryor and @creativecypher

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