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"I consider myself one of the fortunate ones in the teaching profession because not only am I able to teach and encourage my students, but they do the same for me. I am inspired and intrigued by their creative works of art. I go from teaching art class to painting jazz art and it just doesn't get any better than that!" |
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Art and relaxation
 A typical night for thirty year-old Ahmad R. Austin can be stated in one word: Relaxation. In fact, most of his paintings are done at night when his inspiration comes from the sultry sounds of John Coltrane, a popular jazz musician. Austin knows how to make his paintings really come alive with the use of vibrant colors and strong brush strokes.
Austin was born and reared in Birmingham, Alabama. His interest in art began at an early age, as did his reputation. Upon graduating in 1995, Austin continued his education at Alabama A & M University in Huntsville, AL where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Art Education in the year 2000. While at Alabama A & M, he gained skills not only in drawing, but also in photography, painting, glassblowing, and ceramics.
After graduating, Austin was hired with the Birmingham Board of Education where he continues to teach art to today’s youth. Currently, he teaches at Minor Elementary School where he continues to help students achieve recognition for their creativity and talent in art education. When Austin ends his workday with his students, he begins a work of exquisite art. Austin states "I consider myself one of the fortunate ones in the teaching profession because not only am I able to teach and encourage my students, but they do the same for me. I am inspired and intrigued by their creative works of art. I go from teaching art class to painting jazz art and it just doesn't get any better than that!"
Austin has participated in several group shows and art competitions all across Alabama.
He is currently showing his work in Belfest, Ireland, making him an international artist. In the past, Austin's paintings consisted of abstracts filled with pastel colors. Now, it has evolved into magical paintings that capture the essence of jazz music. Austin has now committed himself to producing his new series entitled "Jazz it Up." The artworks in the series consist of images ranging from one person playing a sax to a quartet playing a bass, a horn instrument, piano, and a drum.
This series is intended to capture the feelings that jazz music evokes when one is listening to or playing jazz music. In it, you will see a collection of wonderful paintings of musicians playing jazz music with the usage of bold colors and unique brush strokes. Austin feels this will help convey the feelings of excitement, calmness, and energy, similar to that of jazz music. Austin has touched the hearts of many with his artwork and continues to strive for excellence.
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