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Toni Quest is a self-taught painter, sculptor, published poet and educator.  In 2006, Quest licensed her award-winning painting, ‘U.S. in Us’,  for the book cover, View from the Middle of the Road, Volume II,  U.S. in Us.  This anthology includes the work of three African American poets including a selection of poems by Ms. Quest.

 In May, 2006, Quest was one of a select group of artists chosen to participated in the Visual Soul project to commemorate James Brown. Quest’s portraits of James Brown were exhibited at the Lucy Craft Laney Museum in Augusta, GA before, the passing of the legendary soul singer.

     Quest was named a leading new artist by the Westchester Arts Council, and displayed her art in the Young Emerging Artists exhibition in June , 2006.     

    In March, 2007, Toni Quest was interviewed by Dr. Niama Williams on Internet Voices Radio. She spoke about her recently published poetry and artwork. In 2008, Quest went on to host her own talk show.

     In June, 2009, Quest moderated a panel discussion in New York City, on the synergy of science, spirituality, and art. The panelists included neuroscientists, environmentalists, artists and spiritual leaders.

    Through her art, Quest freed herself from post-traumatic stress disorder, managed physical pain, and combated Multiple Sclerosis. Quest shares this spirit by teaching students, young and old, the techniques she used to teach herself.

    Toni Quest holds a BFA in Communication Arts and is currently a full time gradate student, working towards a master’s degree in adult education and training.

Thank you Toni for answering a few questions for us!  To start, please tell us about the latest project you've worked on.

I recently moderated a symposium on the synergy between science, environmentalism, spirituality and art. The panel included neuroscientists, computer scientists, spiritualists, musicians and artists. The event took place in New York City at the Lolita Bar in downtown Manhattan.

Have you received any awards for your work?

As a visual artist I received an honorable mention in the Beaux Arts juried exhibition in Pleasantville, NY. The painting was called U.S. in Us, and was selected for the cover art on a poetry anthology, called View from the Middle of the Road volume II. My poetry was also included in the anthology. I also was selected as one of Westchester's Young Emerging Artists in 2006.

Do you also do speaking engagements, or seminars?
 
Yes. As a radio talk show host on internetvoicesradio.com, I interview people in the arts. Women for Hire TV conducted an interview with me in New York City, which can be found on the web. I was also interviewed on Heal Yourself Talk Radio in June of 2009, where I discussed my instructional design for returning war veterans who suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). In August of 2009 I was interviewed by E. Everett McFall on his radio program, the Veterans Forum; I discussed PTSD and Self-Actiualizing Portraiture.

How has your education, profession or background helped you in your writing career? Or conversely, how has you writing success helped you in your  profession?

My educational background includes a BFA in communication arts. I also studied at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. Currently I am a full time student at the University of Phoenix, where I am completing my Masters in Adult Education and Training. I feel at this point in my personal and professional journey, my education and experience continue to contribute to my success as an artist and an educator.
 
What kind of other works (books, scripts, poems etc.) have you had published?

I wrote a poem which I dedicated to my late husband. It is published in View from the Middle of the Road volume III. The poem is called Brainy Guys.

Is there any aspect to your profession that gets you in touch with your readers directly?

My website, www.screamingwoman.com and my radio program which is broadcast on www.internetvoicesradio.com have allowed my readers and collectors connect with me directly. As an educator, I have a deep connection to my students. I look forward to teaching on a post-secondary level in the foreseeable future.

What will your next project be?

As a visual artist, I will be showing new work in a solo exhibition in Shrub Oak, NY during the months of September and October, 2009. As a talk show host, I usually have a new guest in the arts every Monday evening. I find my guest to be fascinating and inspiring.

Who inspires you on a personal or business level?

I am inspired by people on a personal level, especially creative people. On a business level I am inspired when I can come up with ideas to help others, rather than simply making money. Although I admit, money is a great motivator. Helping others makes the money more meaningful in my opinion.

What type of work is the most rewarding or satisfying for you?

Definitely painting is my most satisfying activity.

What can you recommend for writers who are just getting started and are trying to make a name for themselves?

My best advice is to write. Or if one is a painter, paint. If one is a dancer, dance. Just do the thing you do. Then get a good agent. I was blessed to have Lucinda Clark as my first agent. She worked stategically to get my name out to the public. So I would say, write and then find an agent or publicist who believes in your work.

How did you get started as a writer?

I wrote a lot in college student. As a poet, I was a closet case for years. Then I met my agent, who was intent on publishing my work, as well as my artwork. As an artist, I had a car accident which prompted me to paint.

Which is your favorite book/work published? Is there a favorite?

It is difficult to pick a favorite. On my radio show I interview many writers.For now I will say I particularly enjoyed a book by Kathrin Stengle called November Rose.

What does a typical work day look like for you?

Oh my. I have no typical work days. Every day of my life is different. The only thing that is the same is my intent on making a difference in my life through accomplishments.

Have you ever had a mentor, or someone who sparked your passion for painting?

I have had many people spark my passion to create.  However, Robert Weiss, who is my personal friend and the world reknowned  scrimshander and painter, is my mentor because he inspired me when I first began painting in 1994. And my late husband, Mark Steven Abrams, was my painting coach because he was formally trained and shared his technical knowledge of art with me. Being self-taught I appreciate both of these men who have contributed to my artistic growth..

Who is your favorite artist?

My favorite artist is Freda Kahlo. Her work is from her gut. She was not afraid to show the darkness that lurked inside of her. She was true to herself and her beliefs. I feel empathy for her and relate to her personal experiences.

Finally, a most important question: what was the last song you sang out loud when you were by yourself?  :)
 
A song by Alicia Keyes, 'No one (can get in the why of what I feel for you)' a real torch song. Love it.

Thank you Toni! We wish you great success with your solo exhibition and your talk show!