Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/1515764
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 | maconmagazine.com 115 See it! Macon Arts Gallery (486 1st St.) and Joe's gallery (913 Washington Ave.) + follow @joeadamspaintings and @maconarts. Tell us your story. Did you grow up in Macon? I was born, raised, and educated in Macon. I never had art lessons, but I was always making things, drawing, coloring, and painting. At Mercer University, I grew more serious about art. What inspires you? I am mostly inspired by other artists' works and art museums. I also find great inspiration from social media. Why do you create your art? The fact that people like what I produce and are willing to pay for it is certainly gratifying. I enjoy the recognition. I love hearing someone say, "I have a Joe Adams," or even better, "I want a Joe Adams." Non-objective, contemporary art is all the rage nowadays, especially with interior designers. I will continue riding that wave as long as I can. It's been a fun one to ride. I enjoy working with designers and architects, and I create a lot of commissioned works. How does Macon contribute to your work? Macon has recognized and embraced me as a legitimate artist; my work is all over the city in homes, institutions, and businesses. It's not everyone's cup of tea, but I've made my place. A 44-year real estate career helped me create a network of collectors of my work. As lifelong Maconites, my wife, Evelyn, and our daughter, Aimee Dasher, have helped, too. I am blessed in so many ways in that God gave me this talent and that I have Evelyn's support. What can we expect to see in your show at Macon Arts Alliance? My work is constantly evolving, so I don't yet know. But I am sure there will be lots of color, scribbles, and dribbles. Transcript edited for length and clarity.