In this episode of The Jason Cavness Experience, Jason sits down with Charles Connor, known in the art world as The Original Spur — a U.S. Veteran, painter, and storyteller who rebuilt his creative life after serving in Iraq.

Charles shares how he rediscovered his passion for art after a 13-year creative block caused by PTSD. Today, his work celebrates creativity, positivity, and individuality — blending bold colors, realism, and African American cultural themes through his unique lens as a Black man and Veteran artist.

This is a conversation about healing, identity, and the power of art to rebuild purpose.

Episode Highlights

• From drawing Ninja Turtles to becoming The Original Spur • Military service, Iraq, and the toll of PTSD • Reconnecting with creativity after a decade of silence • Building a business around self-expression • Black art, community, and representation in Seattle • Finding peace and purpose through painting • Lessons from rebuilding both life and art • Why individuality matters in creative work • The intersection of trauma, healing, and beauty

Guest Bio (Condensed)

Charles Connor, known as The Original Spur, is a U.S. Army Veteran and abstract artist whose work combines vibrant color, realism, and cultural storytelling.

After serving in Iraq, Charles faced years of creative silence caused by PTSD — until he rediscovered his artistic spark 13 years later. His art now reflects resilience, individuality, and pride in the Black experience. Through his business The Original Spur, Charles creates original paintings, exhibits in Seattle's art community, and inspires others to reclaim their creativity after hardship.

Guest Links

Website – https://www.theoriginalspur.com/ Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/theoriginalspur Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/theoriginalspur/

Sponsor

The Jason Cavness Experience is sponsored by CavnessHR, which delivers HR to companies with 49 or fewer employees through a tech platform that automates HR while providing access to a dedicated HR Business Partner. www.CavnessHR.com

Guest Quote / Advice

"Art saved my life. I stopped running from my story — and started painting it instead."

Call to Action

🎧 Listen to full episodes: www.thejasoncavnessexperience.com 🎨 Explore Charles' work: www.theoriginalspur.com 💡 Learn more about CavnessHR: www.CavnessHR.com