How Modern Artists are Changing the World of Art

The routes of modern art go way back to the mid-late nineteenth century, where traditions in the creation of art were thrown aside for experimentation and fresh ideas about the nature of materials and functions of art. Some of first modern artists of the age were impressionists Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet and Paul Gauguin. Romantics, Realists and Impressionists were the pioneers of this adventurous new way of looking at things, drawing inspiration from a vast and varied range of sources such as Japanese printmaking.

The time of experimentation has developed into a blossoming and diverse industry today. Modern art is prevalent, with thousands of artists approaching modern art in extremely diverse and unique ways. Andy Warhol is one of the most famous modern artists of the twentieth century, becoming a leading figure in the art movement known as pop art.

There are artists alive today, still pushing the boundaries and producing art that is both adventurous and popular with people who perhaps aren't even particularly enthusiastic about art.
Such artists include the likes of Doug Hyde and Alexander Millar. Both of these artists create works which depict a character, featured frequently throughout their works. This forms a bond to the entire series of works; when they are viewed together, you gain more of an understanding and feeling for the characters and the atmosphere behind each of the works.

Alexander Millar's artwork rarely shows the faces of the subjects, but rather their ambling figures with hunched shoulders. In words, this might sound rather cold and detached, but this is where the skill of the artist comes in to its own - these works have so much warmth and depth. There is a wealth of personality from each of Alexander Millar's pieces.
Similarly, Doug Hyde artwork stirs fondness within the viewer of his paintings for the subjects within them. Many of Doug Hyde's paintings feature the subject almost entirely filling the canvas in a bold scene, full of rich colours. They are always so happy, that the feeling of joy you see in the painting rubs off on the viewer with great ease.

A fondness and attachment to the artworks forms, and this is so key to why these modern artists are so successful - people are so drawn into the body of works that owning just one is rarely enough. These artworks are like collectables, and this is the way modern artists are changing the entire landscape of the art world. In order to stand out from the crowd, artists increasingly must create something that can instantly draw the attention of an audience, eliciting a response of great warmth and a need to have more than 'just one'.

The Enid Hutt Gallery is a Scottish Art Gallery selling art by hundreds of contemporary artists.  This includes canvas prints, wall decor and sculptures by modern artists. 

New Paltz Art and beyond The Art of Lorraine Lagerbloom

Slip Off. 2005



"Many intelligent people have accepted the false idea that accuracy in representing visual facts is a sign of progress in art. Such imitation of superficial effects has nothing to do with art, which is and always has been the making of mental concepts. Even the scientist is interested in effects only as a phenomena from which to deduce order in life." ... "'Looks like' is not the test of a good painting. It indicates merely visual similarity and shows that the artist has not put his brain to work. " *

Discuss this statements relevance to your own artistic philosophy

I've always felt grateful for not being "blessed" with the talent of being able to realistically render objects. With enough practice, I'm sure I could get there, but I've never had the desire. Rather, this lack of "talent", has made it necessary for me to rely on my own wit to produce work that I hope comes across as meaningful, creative, and beautiful in its own right, not merely a "copy" of what already is.





Have you always been an artist, as a youth were you drawn to the act of creation?
Very much so, but not in any traditional fine art sense. I learned to cook, sew, and do woodwork from my grandparents at a young age and have continued creating things ever since.

What are your earliest memories of art?
Visiting my grandfather's woodshop in New Hampshire and being surrounded by wood, paint, tools, and beautiful scenery. At the beginning of each visit, I would come up with an idea for what I wanted to make and he would go about helping me create it.



What have been some positive influences in your development as an artist?
I had a sculpture professor at SUNY New paltz, Pamela Wallace, whose views of art and objects and materials enter into my own art making constantly. A benefit of gardening for a living is the quiet calm energy of physical outdoor work. I have become more perceptive and tuned in to a bigger picture, in both art and life.


Do you have a favorite artist, or school of art?
I love Ann Hamilton, Maya Lin, Bruce Nauman, Andy Goldsworthy, Agnes Martin, Pamela Wallace, Stephen Spaccarelli, Jockum Nordstrom....I could go on. It depends on my mood and what I'm interested in at a given point.


Did you receive a formal education in arts, if not how did you learn to use the materials and mediums that you choose?
Yes, I received a BFA in Printmaking from SUNY New Paltz and hope to earn an MFA in sculpture in the future.

What is your opinion of arts education? Is an artist born or made - or both?
Some born, some made, some are both. My experience with arts education was almost purely positive, and vastly deepened my understanding of what art has the potential to be. But I also felt a great relief after finishing school and just being able to make things without knowing why exactly. Letting the "why" come later. In school, I felt very self-conscious about working on something without first knowing why I was making it and what concept it would convey in the end.

What do you feel most influences your current attitude/style in painting/media.
i.e. Do you find reference and inspiration from pop culture, philosophy, the human body, wonderful vistas etc.
Nature, natural forms, the solace of wide open spaces, human relationships with nature, a search for the perfect balance of isolation and socialization. Spending three seasons of the year working outside, then moving into the introvertedness of winter. The constant pull towards movement, adventure, and discovery. Trying to fully embrace the full spectrum of human emotion.



Has your passion for art detracted from your success in other areas (i.e. have you had to "suffer" to do what you love)
It's hard to know what life would be like as someone/something else. Yes, I suffer, as do all living beings, but my passion for art has brought more joy to my life than suffering so far.


If someone asks you "what do you do", how do you respond?
I work as a gardener and an artist. More specifically, I specialize in residential ornamental horticulture and I am a sculptor.

What are you currently working on, how is it different from past works.? (08/09)
A series of backlit papier mache drawings of abstract tree forms on a stark background.
This is a continuation of a series of a body of work I started in 2007. I'm working a bit smaller than the prairie landscapes of the past.





Do you feel you evolve as an artist?
Mostly when I have a good chunk of time, like a few months, to direct most of my energy towards art making. That's when I actually feel as if the work is evolving. I am able to experiment with new ideas and techniques more freely when I know I have a large expanse of time to focus mainly on art. If I'm just making work in the evenings or the occasional weekend, I'll tend to stick with formulas that I already know work for me, using this time to build up a body of work.
.
Describe a day in the life of you, the artist:
Depends on the season. In the spring/summer/fall, most of my time is spent doing the outdoor physical work of a gardener for clients. Come winter, I like to slow down and spend more time in my studio. Wake up, drink coffee, start working, hopefully it's Wednesday and the classic country show is on WKZE. I love working in the morning. Usually by 3 pm, I'm done with art making and turn my attention to cooking, movie-watching, reading, and socializing.




How important is the company of other artists and creative individuals to your well being and creative output.
Extremely important, especially as a young relatively unknown arttist. Being around other artists facing the same struggles, being able to encourage and support each others creative endeavors, and having a community to discuss art with is essential.

Do you dislike/disdain the works of other artists?
Sure. I probably dislike way more work than I like. Or rather, I am indifferent about the majority of work I see. Pickiness pervades all areas of my life.

Do you display your works? If so, where have you displayed.
Most recently, in fall of 2008, at The Artist's Palate, a restaurant in Poughkeepsie, NY.


Do you have any words of wisdom for artists trying to "break out" and begin to learn the business of art.

Try to stay connected with peers and professors from school. Attend art events when you can. Talk about your art with whoever will listen. Keep making things even when you get discouraged.

I'm actually terrible at all of these things, but I know they are what I need to be doing more of.


Do you find that the practical aspects of selling,promoting and marketing yourself as an artist detracts from your creative process.
Not really. It does keep me busy though.

What is the goal of art!
To think and see in different and meaningful new ways.

What are your goals as an artist?
To tap into a world of beauty that feels timeless and true.
To tap into the world of emotions through visual expression.

We are more than what we make, what other activities do you enjoy?
Reading fiction, a very yin activity, is hands down my favorite activity but can get boring if not mixed in with more yang activities like skiing, hiking, dancing, socializing. Gardening, cooking, listening to music are all quite, reflective activities I enjoy and then there is the occasional wild night on the town.

What do you do to get over the visual equivalent of "writers block ?"
Start making something repetitive, like braiding fabric or drawing squares, just to get my hands moving. Sort of like a meditation, it allows space to open up for new ideas.

In 20 years, what are your aspirations, what would you like to achieve ?
I'd like to feel settled into a geographical location I am inspired by. I want the time and financial freedom to make artwork that people want to own. Small house, big studio, live lightly on the land, do creative work daily. Be represented by a respected gallery.

Have you done any commercial, public or commissioned work ?
I've had one private commission for a drawing.


If so, how do you feel about your vision being directed by third parties ?
Feels a bit too much like "work."


Do you have any opportunities to offer other artists
(collaborations, gallery space, friendship etc.) ?
Friendship aplenty, and garden design services for trade.


Favorite writer, favorite song, favorite inspiration ?
Gretel Ehrlich, Only Love Can Break Your Heart-Neil Young, the open road.

What is the most beautiful thing in the world?
The prairie.

What is beauty?

Your senses falling in love.

How has the internet changed your promotional activities. ?
I am in the process of getting a website together, which is the only internet promo I have done thus far. Sometimes I post photos of openings on Flickr.

Do you have any favorite resources you would like to share?
I often look for artist opportunities on the NYFA website.


Where can one view your work online?
coming soon....www.lorrainelagerbloom.com

Tell the truth, do artists make better lovers?
Of course.













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An Interview with William Hessian: I am an Artist

William Hessian
26 year old artist from Minneapolis
I have performed 11 public art hunts and 11 art battles across the country
I want to be immortal
website: www.williamhessian.com
blog: www.beardedbunnyblog. blogspot.com

"Many intelligent people have accepted the false idea that accuracy in representing visual facts is a sign of progress in art. Such imitation of superficial effects has nothing to do with art, which is and always has been the making of mental concepts. Even the scientist is interested in effects only as a phenomena from which to deduce order in life." ... "'Looks like' is not the test of a good painting. It indicates merely visual similarity and shows that the artist has not put his brain to work. " *

Discuss this statements relevance to your own artistic philosophy

I completely agree with John Sloan's quote. I do however feel, with any subject, there is always an attempt to master the craft of the subject, even though it does not serve the end purpose it exemplifies a mastery of said subject. Photo realism is a waste a time ever since cameras were invented, unless the realism stands for something much more in the context of the works. I strongly believe that artists should be predicting the future. The mind of artist has to be extremely open and intelligent and their artistic skills need to be able to communicate this thought. Artists should create the future with their art.




Have you always been an artist, as a boy were you drawn to the act of creation?
Always.
What are your earliest memories of art?

my earliest memories are a series drawings on small construction paper I did, drawing various he-man action figures. I remember my mom asking me which character one of the drawings was (which was just scribbles) and then her writing in the names so we would remember later. Buzz-Off was the best. I was 4 years old.


What have been some positive influences in your development as an artist?

I had extremely supportive parents. I spent my childhood trying to convince everyone to draw with me, and the fact that people obliged me on a regular basis also made a big difference in my life. This happened from my brother, to my relatives, to classmates. I spent a good deal of my childhood drawing my own trading cards to sell to my neighbors for change, or more likely for 'Billy Money' which I created solely for the purpose of buying my drawings.

Do you have a favorite artist, or school of art?

Francis Bacon, although I do not seem to understand why I enjoy his works so deeply. They are moody and creepy, and so is Francis Bacon....but it works. His work seems important to me.

Did you receive a formal education in arts, if not how did you learn to use the materials and mediums that you choose?

Yes. BA in studio arts from Winona State University.
What is your opinion of arts education? Is an artist born or made - or both?

I think anyone can be an artist, and I do not really think the education system does any good in helping anyone decide this. I hate our school system, I think it hurts our ability to learn and challenge. Everyone is born an artist, it is simply what happens next that matters.
What do you feel most influences your current attitude/style in painting/media.

i.e. Do you find reference and inspiration from pop culture, philosophy, the human body, wonderful vistas etc.

I find myself drooling over the Juxtapoz culture of art. I love this graffiti style, and Japanese influenced custom toy markets, video game art, and these type of works. Going back to the Sloan quote however, I do think that while most of the Juxtapoz culture is very appealing I do not think that artists are putting their attention where it should be. I would like to know what Luke Chuh, Aaron Kraten, and Mark Ryden think about the future of humanity and how they think we should solve the problems that face this world. This is what their new works should be addressing.


Has your passion for art detracted from your success in other areas (i.e. have you had to "suffer" to do what you love)

yes. I do not find joy in success in other areas. I choose careers that will work with my art, and choose schedules that give me able time to create new work. I had starting a custom airbrushing business, and in one year basically decided that it was hindering my artistic creation and therefore I only airbrush on rare occasions now.

If someone asks you "what do you do", how do you respond?

I am an artist.
What are you currently working on, how is it different from past works.? (12/08)

I am working on predicting the future with my art. Designing concepts, challenging beliefs and trying to understand what we need to do as human beings to save the earth and save ourselves. I want to know if we are the villians of the earth, or an infection, and see if we cant reverse our effect of the planet.

Do you feel you evolve as an artist?

Every single day. I feel mentally I have evolved into understanding a lot of new concepts and ideas as a person, and part of that comes from challenging myself as an artist. I want to understand how everything works. I feel I am evolving for better or worse at a very high rate. I can look back at a drawing I did a few months ago and know that I was in a completely different place artistically when I created that. This seems to change in me hour by hour. Line quality, subject matter, size, force, composition flows in and out of me and changes dramatically with each project.
Describe a day in the life of you, the artist:

My life is constantly changing day to day, but here was yesterday: i woke up at 1pm, responded to emails, packaged up some artwork that needed to be sent out as prizes awarded to winners of my Minneapolis art hunt. I then went to the library to scan in a set of drawings, research a few graphic novels, and print off some of my own custom stickers. I called a residency back in Minnesota about visiting and teaching their kids. I went out to teach a LEGOs class in an after school program. I came back to eat dinner with my girlfriend, and watch a few documentaries I rented from the library. Then starting from 1am-5am I created two mazes and drew out a bunch of ideas for future paintings in my sketchbook for my immortality series all while listening to Coast to Coast AM.



How important is the company of other artists and creative individuals to your well being and creative output.

I find it can be distracting at times. I do not need contact with other artists, or if I do, I can usually do so through email or myspace. I have a competitiveness with other artists automatically, I always want to be creating. It only takes about 5 minutes around any working artists to feel the itch to create my own work. I suppose if I hit a creative wall, or a crossroads in how to respond to the world, then I would need to be around artists, but otherwise I do not really think it is a benefit. Unless they are really awesome people, which a few of them are, and in that case I would strive to make friends out of them.
Then again, there are a few art relationships that everyone SHOULD have. I value my friendship with artist Matt Semke as a very amazing one. Since 2004 we have done 10 Art Battles, ranging from live ax chopping, painting with ten foot poles, solving free energy, and rule based competitions. Together we try to make an interactive experience in which no art project is complete unless the audience takes part, we call this: endeavorism. I consider him a close friend and a person which i feed off artistically. Finding a relationship like this is unusual but extremely exciting as an artist. I think collaborations are very important from time to time.
Do you dislike/disdain the works of other artists?

I usually like something about everyone's work, and I usually dislike something about everyones work too. Same with each work I create myself. I do compare how I would have conveyed my message differently, or in a different style. I do also try to understand the process and contemplate how successful it is.
Do you display your works? If so, where have you displayed.

A show my work all over Minnesota, North Dakota, and have been all over the country doing miniature art hunts. The best places to learn where I have been is by observing my online resume at www.williamhessian.com/resume.html

Do you have any words of wisdom for artists trying to "break out" and begin to learn the business of art.

I think struggling and rejection is a part of the process. You need to be tested. There will be period of time where you ask yourself, "do i really want to do this?" and if you are still standing there creating work and hacking away at the business of art, then you will eventually realize you have made it. If you give up, lose focus, go a different direction then it simply isnt your time to be an artist. Try again when you feel the drive.

Do you find that the practical aspects of selling,promoting and marketing yourself as an artist detracts from your creative process.

Absolutely. I wish every single day that I had an assistant to do all the little things that I hate doing. I want a secretary, public relations person, photographer, grant writer, framer, manager, and a bunch of interns to help me. Maybe one day I will get there.

What is the goal of art!

To express oneself. I think it is literally that simple. Everyone is an artist in some way, most average people are horrible artists, but they are still artists all the same.
What are your goals as an artist. ?

To express myself. I want to transcend craft, and truly making decisions based on how I feel and what I want to portray. I want to have some influence and make art matter. I want to make art an interaction with the audience, and make is special again. I want kids to love art, and crave art. I want the world to understand the importance of creation, beyond just aesthetics. I cannot do this myself however, and will be trying to get everyone to come along for the ride.

We are more than what we make, what other activities do you enjoy.?

I play basketball. I enjoy documentaries. I like board games a lot. I am a tea enthusiast, when i can afford it (good tea is expensive).
What do you do to get over the visual equivalent of "writers block" ?

I have never had visual writers block, and I have never been bored. However, I do have a big problem with finishing things I start. I lose interest and move on to nine different projects. I have learned how to focus, and at least finish one out of ten projects I start, which has been a big step for my career as an artist.
In 20 years, what are your aspirations, what would you like to achieve ?
I hope to have been many places, and have create works that change the world, even in a small way. I would love to have people waiting and anticipating my next move, wanting to see what I do next.
Have you done any commercial, public or commissioned work ?

I get commissions all the time. Most of them I am too nice to turn down, which is something in 20 years I wish to have gotten better at (referring to last question). I create public art hunts, and offer my art to anyone that wants to look for it. Commercially I do not find much work.

If so, how do you feel about your vision being directed by third parties ?

I do not like it. This was my biggest problem with my airbrushing shop. I knew I could do whatever the customer wanted, I just did not want to do it. I am very opposed to repetition, and if I have to airbrush one more flag, skull or eagle I may go insane. I do not mind doing smaller commissioned drawings, because its quicker and I simply enjoy drawing more than I enjoy airbrushing.

Do you have any opportunities to offer other artists (collaborations, gallery space, friendship etc.) ?

I always want to collaborate. I run a Sketchbook of Doom series, which is a traveling sketchbook for artists to contribute to. I used to run a gallery, with the airbrush shop, and was very interested in showing new work. I do not run it any longer, but I do always challenge any artists to collaborate or visually respond to my works. I also like to trade links, or write blogs about artists around the world or locally here in Minnesota. My art blog (www. beardedbunnyblog. blogspot. com) is a place where I want artists to come, enjoy and be exposed to new things. Any artist that wants to be featured on my blog simply needs to send me an email explaining why they should be featured, and send me a few artworks to display.

Favorite writer, favorite song, favorite inspiration ?

I like Chuck Palahnuik and Dr. Suess for writers. I like 'Power of Love' by Huey Lewis and the news for song. Nature is my inspiration.
What is the most beautiful thing in the world?
green olives.

What is beauty?
a word to describe green olives.
How has the internet changed your promotional activities. ?

The internet has given me a ground to stand on. I had a hard time socially walking into a gallery, or calling people on the phone. I was nervous and lacked confidence. E-mails and websites have allowed for me to build my confidence and understand how to interact with the art world around. It seemed very daunting in the beginning, and now I feel like I could walk into any room and feel like I matter. I love writing blogs, sending e-mails, making videos and corresponding through e-mails. The internet has a much better memory than I do, and I can always reference answers. Without the internet I do not know how long it would have taken me to break out into the art world at the level I have now.
I also strongly enjoy immediate gratification. I can finish a work, photo it, and upload the thing within a few minutes with paint still wet and send it out to thousands of people. By the next day I can get feedback on this work, and what people think of it. If I really love the work, I can create a digital business card and put the image all over the internet in a few hours. I try not to do this too frequently, because it can be a turn off and numb the viewers to my work.
Do you have any favorite resources you would like to share?

If you are looking for work, or a side job I like craigslist a lot. If you want to sell your work online I strongly suggest etsy. com . If you want a grant or scholarship I recommend Springboard for the Arts. And if you are just starting out and do not have a website you should start at MNartists. org. Keep in mind, the last two answers are very Minnesota specific.

Where can one view your work online?
www. williamhessian. com is the best place. However, you can find my on jumpcut, youtube, myspace, facebook, deviant art, art wanted, saachi gallery, my blogs, and cafepress.

Tell the truth, do artists make better lovers?
actually lovers make better artists.

An Interview with Phillip Vigil: Artist

Have you always been an artist? as a boy were you drawn to the act of creation?

I like to think I've always been an artist. I drew a lot as a young boy. During high school I would draw constantly during class. Art is something I've been around since Day One. I never intended to become an artist. It just sort of happened that way.

What are your earliest memories of art?

Going to the national gallery of art and seeing my first Picasso in person. Picasso was a huge idol of mine, I adored his work. Seeing the work my family has done. Also watching my mom doodle while on the phone; she would always do that.

What have been some positive influences in your development as an artist?

Music is a huge influence on my work especially jazz and underground hip-hop. If it weren’t for what I listen to I doubt I would be doing what I’m doing now. It’s shown me that there is more than what you see.

Do you have a favorite artist, or school of art?

Willem de Kooning and Charles Schulz. de Kooning for me is the epitome of an artist. Charles Schulz has shown me that you can do a lot with very little, and that it isn’t wrong to do it your own way.



Did you receive a formal education in Arts? If not how did you learn to use the materials and media that you choose?

I am a self-taught artist. I learned through trial and error. It's all about experimentation for me. Finding out what works and what doesn't. It's part of the thrill of being an artist. To discover things you didn't know yesterday.

What is your opinion of arts education? Is an artist born or made - or both?

I think going to art school won't make or break you. I know quite a few great artists who didn't have any formal training at all. But I think it does help.

I think an artist is born and made. I feel as though I was born to do this, to be an artist. But it also just didn't happen overnight either. It's taken me a lot of hard work to get where I am today with my work.

What do you feel most influences your current attitude/style in painting/media.

Everything influences my work. Inspiration is everywhere. Inspiration never chooses a timely hour to appear. I think you have to be able to recognize it when you see it. It comes from the music I listen to, the artists I like, the sky, sunsets, everything.






Has your passion for art detracted from your success in other areas (i.e.
have you had to "suffer" to do what you love)?

Art has not detracted from anything. Art has become my life, and has changed my life forever. I don't think an artist has to suffer to make great art. They just have to stay true to themselves.

If someone asks you "what do you do", how do you respond?

Simply, "I'm an artist".

What are you currently working on? How is it different from past works?

I’m working on new drawings at the moment. They’re different and then they aren’t different. I’m also working on my assemblages where I take everyday objects and arrange them in a certain way; they get photographed, and disassembled.

Do you feel you evolve as an artist?

Of course, evolving is essential and it's something that interests me a great deal. Art is all about moving forward for me.

Describe a day in the life of you, the artist:

I usually get up pretty early in the morning. I like starting on my work early. I'll usually start on a few small drawings. Then if I need to I'll cut more paper for the larger drawings. Then I'll usually spend the rest of the day working on the large drawings, or perhaps working on my assemblages. I'm always keeping an eye out for interesting objects, and ideas that I would like to include. When I'm working time flies by so quickly. It's kind of hard to get all that you want done in a day. I also get to the gym at some point during the day. It's nice to get away from thinking about art even if only for a few hours. By the time I get what I want done its usually time for bed, time to sleep and start all over again.


How important is the company of other artists and creative individuals to your well being and creative output.

It’s not entirely important to me, but it is important for me to have these relationships with these people. It’s interesting to have people around you who can relate to you on an artistic level. I get inspired quite a bit by the people I’ve come into contact with. But I also don’t mind spending time alone, which is what I prefer.

Do you dislike/disdain the works of other artists?

I like a lot of work other artists make. That doesn’t mean I like everything they make. Art is about finding your own voice, and being able to express it your own way. It’s exciting to see something that you’ve never seen before.

Do you display your works? If so, where have you displayed.

I'm not displaying any of my work at the moment.

Do you have any words of wisdom for artists trying to "break out" and begin to learn the business of art.

Don't be afraid.

Do you find that the practical aspects of selling, promoting and marketing yourself as an artist detracts from your creative process?

It doesn’t detract from my creative process. It's all a part of being an artist, and getting your work out there for everyone to see. If you don’t make time for any of this no one will ever know what you do. Good business is the best kind of art, right?

What is the goal of art!

To inspire, that’s what it means to me. Keep moving forward, but always look back.

What are your goals as an artist?

To inspire others the way I’ve been inspired. To keep moving my work forward and to not become formulaic with what I’m doing.

We are more than what we make, what other activities do you enjoy?

I enjoy reading, listening to music, going to concerts, going to libraries. I also like going to the gym and working out. But it's kind of hard to get away from art because it's become who I am as a person.

What do you do to get over the visual equivalent of "writer’s block"
I think this quote by Chuck Close says it all; it’s something I’ve though about for a long time now.

"The advice I like to give young artists, or really anybody who'll listen to me, is not to wait around for inspiration. Inspiration is for amateurs; the rest of us just show up and get to work. If you wait around for the clouds to part and a bolt of lightning to strike you in the brain, you are not going to make an awful lot of work. All the best ideas come out of the process; they come out of the work itself. Things occur to you. If you're sitting around trying to dream up a great art idea, you can sit there a long time before anything happens. But if you just get to work, something will occur to you and something else will occur to you and something else that you reject will push you in another direction. Inspiration is absolutely unnecessary and somehow deceptive. You feel like you need this great idea before you can get down to work, and I find that's almost never the case."




In 20 years, what are your aspirations, what would you like to achieve.

I would like to continue what I'm doing. There aren't any real goals I would like to achieve; I think that’s unrealistic. I don't know what’s going to happen tomorrow. I like the uncertainty of art. I could be dead tomorrow and that would be the end of the story. What’s more important to me is right now, because Time is all we have.

Have you done any commercial, public or commissioned work?

I have not done any commercial or public commissioned work.

Favorite writer, favorite song, favorite inspiration?

Not so much writer but more so a favorite book “de Kooning: An American Master”, My favorite song is "Oh By The Way" by Art Blakey. As for my favorite inspiration I don't have one.

What is the most beautiful thing in the world?

Being alive.

What is beauty?

Beauty is what you make of it. Cliché I know..

How has the internet changed your promotional activities?

It's enabled me to show my work to the world. A lot more people get to see what is I do.

Where can one view your work online?

www. myspace. com/highendart is the only place to view my work online currently.