Meet Sam Lyles | Artist and Data Analyst

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sam Lyles and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sam, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
As I watched the canvases pile up in my kitchen of my tiny apartment, I thought wouldn’t it be a great idea to share this with the world? So Slyles Styles Art was born out of a practicality of need for more space to create more art but has turned into so much more. Now my business provides me with the ability to share my art in ways I never thought possible, including networking for new shows, learning tips and tricks from seasoned artists and this interview!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I grew up in North Carolina and began my artistic journey by painting Greek Life coolers in college. It was something I just decided to try out of the blue and ended up falling in love with painting. After I graduated from UNC Chapel Hill, I took a chance and moved sight unseen to Denver, CO. The gorgeous landscapes and huge art scene rekindled my love of painting and I officially entered the Colorado art scene in April 2022. I am completely self-taught and love trying new mediums/techniques. I specialize in abstract and pop art utilizing lots of bright, bold colors.

I am lucky enough now to have wonderful connections in the art world and an in-home studio, but it wasn’t always that way. My first year selling was an absolute hustle. I have people come up to me all the time and say I could never do what you do – but you can. As long as you have a dream worth pursuing, embrace the difficult and push through. Because the other side is so worth it.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
When friends come to visit town, I love taking them to the artistic gem that is Santa Fe. There is so much to do just on this very street alone from antique shopping to art walks to grabbing a taco at Tacos Selene. I also take them to Meow Wolf at night (to avoid the kiddos!) and enjoy being IN the art. Lastly, we’ve got to go see a show at Clock Tower Cabaret. Not only are the performers incredible, but this theater has delicious food, drinks and wonderful cliental. Can’t go wrong!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would not be where I am today without Christopher LaFleur of LaFleur Arts Event Productions. He has not only been my greatest inspiration to keep going when times are tough, but he has introduced me to some of the coolest event locations like Meow Wolf Denver. He is a shining bright light in a field that can sometimes be incredibly hard to navigate. He is always so willing and able to help fellow artists realize their dreams.

Website: https://www.slylesstylesart.com/

Instagram: @slyles_styles_art

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-lyles/

Other: TikTok: @slyles_styles_art