Meet Brett Mason | Artist, competitive distance trail/Ultra runner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Brett Mason and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Brett, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
This question is relevant to everything I do. Simply put, I don’t give up. Running has taught me a lot about pushing forward and seeing the results of consistent work, even when most days I don’t wanna go out the door and run those 8-10 miles. . I think it’s important to understand that “the grind” is part of the process. You have to accept that no matter what it is you’re doing, there’s gonna be ups and downs. Keeping that positive mindset through the hard times and staying focused on that end goal is the big picture. I realized recently, In terms of being an artist, that the true artist at heart never gives up their craft. There’s often times,? such a vision or believe, that we stubbornly push forward because of that feeling that we have that thing to offer that must be fulfilled. In reality, that big success that makes our legacy, inspires or helps others, may come on our death bed.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve been a creative individual all my life. I would say that imagination can be a little quirky at times. Whether it be a painting, a song, a piece of creative writing, or how I approach training for a race, I think one’s imagination is what sets them apart. There’s no limit to what those turning wheels can create when focused and driven. By just being yourself, you have the best chance of creating your own style, process or brand. The word ‘easy’ always seems to come up in these conversations, like it’s supposed to be easy. Forget it. Nobody does anything great through a path of complete comfort. That’s why getting out of that comfort zone is so important for growth and success. Again, to quote David Goggins, “it’s so easy to be great nowadays, because everyone else is so weak”.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’d likely drag them for a run through Frick or Schenley park, two of Pittsburgh’s great parks, located right in the city. Then we could hit one of the nearby bars in Oakland, Shadyside, or Regent square, and lube our joints, post twenty mile run, with a nice hazy IPA. D’s in Regent Square is a little bar, just outside Frick park with a great vibe. Also, Mad Mex, with a few locations in the city, is great place to get a good burrito and Margarita. Of course I should mention my own neighborhood, Beechview, one of the only places to get authentic street tacos that really slap. Definitely recommend that.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
One name, David Goggins. If you know David Goggins, then I don’t have say anymore. If you don’t, you should. He defines how the proper mindset can completely change the direction of one’s life. There’s so many things things he’s done and succeeded at, despite coming from an abusive child hood, and a list of adversities. He simply woke up one day and decided ‘enough is enough’, took accountability for his actions:downfalls, and completely changed the direction of his life, inspiring millions of others to do the same. David tells his story in his book “Can’t hurt me”.

Website: Www.brettmasonpaintings.com

Instagram: @brett3617, @brett_mason_76

Twitter: @brettmsn

Facebook: @brettmason @brettmasonpaintings