At this moment, you’re like a well-kept secret ready to make its grand entrance. How would you like to introduce yourself to the world?
Ideally, in a cloud of smoke, some thunder and lightning, and something tragic playing softly. I wouldn’t have anything specific to say, as long as my presence is felt.
Since you started out, how have you developed the style and themes within your work?
I have always been someone that has had an intense internal world. Fantasy has pushed me since the beginning, so it was only natural for my work to take its form. The process of getting to this point was just me focusing on specific feelings that caught my attention the most — currently using religion, romance, metaphysical, and familial ties as concepts.
Like many artists before you, you dropped out of school to pursue your craft exclusively. How has that been for you and your practice?
It’s gone well so far. In my opinion, a fundamental piece of being an artist is studying, so I don't feel like I’ve missed out on anything necessarily. The other artists I've met along the way became stand-in teachers just by being enthusiastic about their own work.
You recently had an art showing at a local art exhibit in Richmond, as well as having some of your artwork being sold; how was it having the public perceive you and your work?
It was very odd, honestly. Obviously, I am thankful for the opportunity and appreciative that people want to look at my work at all. It produces a weird feeling because I never intend to sell when starting a piece. However, watching people walk up to my paintings is extremely heartwarming. That moment is probably the most enjoyable part of being an artist — apart from creating the work of course.
Is there a specific goal you’re trying to accomplish with your work?
Maybe to appreciate the world around you. If you start to pay attention to the things around you I think you’d find a lot more is meant to cherish. I think my goal is first nostalgia and second romance. Something that tugs at the back of your mind. Like a baby photo of yourself. It looks nothing like you now, but you know it is you, so you cherish it.