Terrence Howard on growing as an artist and a person

Before acting, Terrence Howard studied chemical engineering at Pratt University, and is working on an album of his “urban country” music for a Fall 2007 release.

His perspectives are from a Bullz-Eye Interview by Jason Zingale (2005).

We have to remember.. that we’re all artists. Every one of us is an artist, and as an artist, you really can stroll into any venue that you want, as long as you take your time to learn the etiquette of that venue.

As a painter who’s used acrylics, you can easily learn how to use oils, but you have to know the rules of using oils.

And once these young artists learn the rules of applying themselves not just musically, but applying themselves theatrically, it’s the same rules being used, it’s just a different stroke.

And I applaud that. Every artist has to grow, and has to challenge themselves with a new form of expression. … I want to touch all fields. But I’m just learning this sinew of musical expression a little bit more first…

The reason that I’m an actor, or an artist, is ultimately because I’m trying to paint a self-portrait, and the most complete and beautiful self-portrait that you can.

My future’s about trying to be a better man. My future’s truly about trying to be a better human being. I can’t tell you if one day I’ll be standing up there with an Oscar or directing, but I am going to be the best human being I possibly can.

[Photo: as a police detective in "The Brave One."]