From Target to Timeless Murals: The Art Journey of Timothy B

The artistic journey often begins in the most unexpected places. For Timothy B, his story didn’t start in a prestigious art school or with formal training—it began in the breakroom of a Target store. A moment of defiance against a disrespectful supervisor and the realization that he couldn’t see himself in a "regular degular" job led him to pursue art full-time. That decision, born from frustration, confidence, and necessity, laid the foundation for what would become an illustrious career in the public art world.

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Discovering the Artist Within

Timothy’s journey into tattooing began after seeing a coworker in Target tattooing employees.

The work wasn’t impressive, but it sparked a realization: if that guy could do it, so could he. He took it upon himself to learn, got his hands on tattoo machines, and began practicing on friends and followers.

That phase of his career became a stepping stone, eventually leading him to larger canvases—murals that would make him a recognized name in the Bay Area and beyond.

From Tattoos to Towering Murals

It was through the Bay Area Mural Festival that Timothy B found his love for large-scale street art.

A pivotal moment was painting a mural on Seventh Street, an experience that cemented his desire to go solo and push his artistic boundaries.

Inspired by interactions with other artists and fueled by a competitive spirit, he pushed himself to create more, hone his skills, and put his artistic stamp on Oakland. Timothy’s work isn't just about making spaces look good—it’s about storytelling.

One of his most memorable projects was painting a massive 80-foot-wide, 17-foot-high mural commissioned by Empire Records.

Given only ten days to complete it, he poured 100 hours into the piece, proving to himself and others that he had what it took to stand on his own as an artist.

A Muralist with a Message

Timothy B isn’t just an artist; he’s a voice for his community. His murals reflect the culture, struggles, and beauty of the spaces they inhabit. When asked whether he feels pressure to represent the Black community in his art, he acknowledges it—but also embraces it.

His work is unapologetically rooted in the Black experience, from the subjects he chooses to the themes he explores.

He sees his murals as guardians of the neighborhoods they occupy, and with each project, he aims to not only beautify but also empower. His signature ancestral trees, often incorporated into his murals, symbolize strength, history, and the deep roots of the community.

Fatherhood and Finding Balance

As a new father, Timothy B has had to adjust his artistic process. The days of waking up and heading straight to a mural site are gone. Now, his mornings start with exercise and family time before he picks up a brush.

His son is already showing signs of wanting to follow in his footsteps, constantly reaching for Timothy’s paint supplies.

While balancing fatherhood and a demanding art career isn’t easy, it’s something he approaches with the same dedication he brings to his murals.

Art Beyond the Canvas

Timothy B’s creative ambitions stretch far beyond murals. Industrial design, sculpture, and even architecture are on his list of future ventures. He envisions designing shoes, furniture, and even an entire artist compound built on his own land.

His love for design extends to studying global architecture, constantly seeking inspiration for what’s next.

Despite his growing international recognition, Oakland remains home. His roots in the town run deep, and he believes in staying connected to his community while expanding his global footprint.

The Business of Art

One of the biggest misconceptions about artists is that they must struggle. Timothy has actively worked to prove that wrong. Early in his career, he made a conscious effort to turn his passion into a sustainable business. He calculated how much he needed to make each month, developed a strategy, and worked tirelessly to reach his financial goals—all while staying true to his artistic vision.

For artists looking to break into public art, his advice is simple but powerful: put your all into it.

"If this is what you want to do, you have to put your energy into it and figure out how to make it make sense. The more you put in, the more you get out."

Timothy B's success isn’t just about talent—it’s about work ethic, strategy, and relentless determination. He’s proof that artists can thrive, create freely, and build legacies that extend far beyond the walls they paint on.

Conclusion

From tattooing at Target to painting murals that define cityscapes, Timothy B’s journey is a testament to the power of betting on oneself. His story is one of resilience, artistic evolution, and community impact. And with many more projects and dreams on the horizon, his legacy is only just beginning.

Stay connected with Timothy B’s latest projects and artwork by following him on social media and checking out his upcoming exhibitions. If you're an aspiring artist, take notes—success in the art world isn't just about talent; it's about persistence, confidence, and knowing your worth.