#iajm interview

[iamjamesmatthew]

IAJM ... #0040

Sometimes you have to let people see you fail, in order to blind them with your eventual victories. **Think big picture** - Matthew J

[iamjamesmatthew]

ATTENTION: GRAFFITI WRITERS AND STREET ARTISTS!

ATTENTION: Any graffiti writers, artists, or creative-types that are interested in being featured in an online Q&A; get at me, and let’s see if we can build. I'm looking to work with SERIOUS WRITERS ONLY. I don't want to work with anybody who is not committed to putting in the work needed to build. The team doesn't hustle lopsidedly. You can contact me via Twitter.

[iamjamesmatthew]

IAJM INTERVIEW w/ OPIA : PART ONE

It's been awhile since I've last had the opportunity to interview a writer from Los Angeles, so when the opportunity to connect with South Bay L.A. graffiti artist Opia came about, I was psyched. I have followed her work for quite some time, and knowing her work, I became excited; she's talented.  Once the article was wrapped up and everything was reviewed, my levels of excitement doubled (no lie). Going beyond the conversations found in generic graff interviews, Opia - the graffiti writer, ministry worker, proud wife, and renewed woman (Romans 12:2) -  shared with us the story of her career, the importance of her faith and whether or not it conflicts with being a graffiti writer, staying motivated, and being a part of the I.S.I. Collective. This is part one of a double post w/ Opia. Check it out. Soli Deo Gloria!

OPIA interview (part one) by Matthew J IAJM: Who is Opia?

OPIA: Opia is my art-alias, nickname, moniker, the name I "write" in graffiti terms. I received this name about 15 years ago. I was a teenager then and had befriended lots of people with whom I had many things in common, graffiti art being one of them. I recall chatting with someone about my initiative to start writing, but I didn't have a name to go by. After trading ideas on names, I finally settled on "Opia," which was the preferred (shortened) version of the full word: utopia. I preferred this because it was a four letter word, therefore, quick and easy to paint. Beside all this, I did take a liking to its meaning, the ethereal quality of the word brought out a longing for the real thing in me. 

This was a time in my life in which I had entered into a stream of intrigue over graffiti. It captured my eyes and by being inclined to art, it challenged my competency to do it. Everywhere I'd look, there it would be; and because my friends then were interested or into it themselves, I had a creative environment to practice my ability.

Fifteen years later, I still represent this name. I've entertained thoughts of changing what I write for quite some time, because the truth of it all is, it isn't all that pretty! I dealt with deep-seated guilt and searing shame. I wanted to escape the reputation that I had caused to fall upon myself. This name became a banner of identity and the life I've lived, all negative. Nevertheless, it is a part of my timeline and genuine history. Old things have passed away, and all things have become new, I am a new creation in Christ (ref: 2 Cor. 5:17). It is a part of my testimony.

Little did I realize as a youth that this abbreviated alias, Opia, became an ideal place I longed for; a little bit of Heaven, a place of peace, sanctuary, rest --- Eden, itself. Not until I opened my heart to Jesus, did I find the strength to finally stop running away from myself and face the truth.

  IAJM: How did you first get involved with graffiti? What drew you to this particular medium rather than say "classical sketching" or gallery style painting?

  OPIA: I had the real-deal in front of me. Exposure to art and graffiti was the norm when growing up in the South Bay Area of Los Angeles. I admired the talent, techniques, and skills of the few murals within the community and I can think back to being about five years old telling myself, "I want to paint something like that!" I'd stand outside of the storefront murals and would twist my neck all the way around to take in the image. The sheer size of the space compared to my little frame was impressive.

It then progressed to rubbernecking as I rode in cars, to glimpse the latest burner, throw-ups, or tags. I'd also look for landmarks, long-time running spots and markings. By doing this, I learned which areas were doused in graff. There were the hot spots which stood temporarily, but received one of two reactions: a round of applause or a fist in the air. There was also the older stuff, especially around the tracks, that I quickly learned to treat as an ancient hieroglyph. Along with what I picked up by observation, I started sketching what I thought was "like" the graffiti I saw. I'd hang out with friends at school, after school, and on the weekends where there was lots of skating, looking at graff mags, drawing in sketchbooks, listening to music, talking about what we liked and such. I was surrounded by many gifted artists and their inspiration rubbed off on me. Their creativity further propelled me into my artistic ventures.

I admire many other forms of mediums and expertise. I actually dabble in a few, but I'm no expert. I believe what drew me to this particular medium was my circumstances (location, personal influences, and sub-cultures) along with my interest for the unusual form of art captivated me. I was an at-risk youth and was balancing on the scales of life. I eventually became heavy on the side of taking risks as a way of seeking attention at whatever cost. My graffiti became about recognition, the more I was "up," the more I became validated by others. The more vandalism I caused, the more my suppressed anger was released. The more improved in style, technique and skill I became, the more pride ate away at my humility. I had no balance and the choices I was making at that time (drinking, drugs, etc.), wasn't directing me to use that talent in productive ways. I was on self-destruct mode, spiraling down, full speed ahead and taking down my creativity with it.

IAJM: Does your faith ever cause problems with your choice in artistic expression; meaning does the fact that graffiti is seen as a crime does that conflict with your beliefs?

OPIA: People have different perceptions about graffiti as an art form. I paint graffiti-style murals with owner consent, all legal. I've received criticism from some because there is a stigma to graffiti, and I can see where they come from. I respect that. However, my intention is not to paint for self and what I write, but for something fruitful. I realize that I have a certain ability to get a message across, and as a Christian, I have to use my talents wisely. As long as I can stay true to that, my conscience is clear.

  I find it encouraging when the positive reactions far outweigh the negative critiques. I believe the content of the work speaks life to people and it sparks hope. Some may receive it openly, and some will reject it totally - both the mural and/or the Message.

  IAJM: It's important to stay ambitious and keep oneself focused. I would like to know what keeps you focused on improvement. Motivational speaker Eric Thomas talks about the importance of having a why (as in a reason why people stay committed to a particular task). What is your why, and how do you keep yourself focused on self-improvement?

OPIA: I focus on Jesus. It may sound cliché to some, but unashamedly, this is my faith and my faith is in Him. As the blind man once said, "I was blind but now I see!" My aim is not on self-improvement, but rather on becoming more like Him; a transformation. It's like metamorphosis, like how a caterpillar becomes a butterfly. It's a beautiful thing.

IAJM: California has a layered graffiti community. How do you see the culture in California? What do you like best about the scene?

OPIA: I see graffiti in California as multi-faceted because of the artist's preferences. You have preferences in locations, numerous combinations of "ups" (tags, throwies, and/or pieces, etc.), colors (monotone or wild), type of surfaces, and the list goes on. I've seen interest in it come and go, and come again. Through the decades I've lived so far, I see it as an appetite that cannot be satiated.

What I like best is creative process, from start to finish. It reminds me much of my life, how I'm a work in progress. I also like ingenuity, some can think up really amazing stuff, like structure and flow, color combos, techniques, and others.

IAJM: You're associated with two crews- I.S.I. Collective and GG Crew. I want to take time to look at both crews, so first we'll start with I.S.I: What does I.S.I. represent? What is its history? What is your mission statement?

OPIA: I.S.I. Collective started in 2008; it stands for "Iron Sharpens Iron" which is derived from Proverbs 27:17, "As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend." It is a fellowship of accountable and creative souls who use the arts to share the Good News of Jesus Christ. It was started in Northern California by "Fasm" to hold Christians that spray painted (which consisted a majority of Gospel Graffiti crew members worldwide) accountable to Biblical standards and encouraged those involved to seek and give wise counsel, which in the long-run, is a blessing. In 2010-2011, the crew leadership was passed on to Wes77 and its main root is in Los Angeles. There are 7 members and all have unique talents to contribute to the mission: Cawst, Fre(e) of Sin, Joey Digitals, Skrybe52, Vox, Wes77, and myself.

*end of part one* 

Part two of our exclusive interview with Opia - dealing with her ties to the GG Crew, the importance of mentorship, advice to aspiring writers, her legacy, and more-  is up next. Get ready, people!!

For more on Opia, click here.

[iamjamesmatthew]

Tiffany Evans from LAGraffitiGirls.com

Check my 2010 interview with Tiffany Evans

[iamjamesmatthew]

IAJM INTERVIEW W/ TEK (ST. JOHN'S, NEWFOUNDLAND) FEATURED ON SENSESLOST.COM

Our interview with St.John's ,Newfoundland representative Tek was recently been posted on SensesLost.com. You can check out the full article with Tek, highlighting Newfoundland's burgeoning scene, here.

Shout-out to Tek for coming through with the interview and a special thanks to the team @ SensesLost.com for posting this article on their site. *Much appreciated*

[iamjamesmatthew]

IAJM Interview w/ graphic designer Tommy Surya (Indonesia)

Tommy Surya interview by Matthew J ( @IamJamesMatthew)

IAJM: Introduce yourself to the readers and tell them exactly who is Tommy Surya? 

Tommy Surya: Hello everyone my name is Tommy Surya, I’m living on small city of Malang East Java, Indonesia. I'm 31 years old and work as a freelance illustrator, graphic designer, and, sometimes, I do paintings.  I started drawing in 2007. As far as formal education is concerned, I don't have an actual degree in art & design. I did study Social Politics at Communication College, but art has always been more interesting, to me, so I decided to pursue that path.  I just want to say I have never regretted my choice to follow art, because for me art is everything. We can live life without politics, but we can't exist without art. Know what I mean?

 IAJM: I know many artists don't like being labeled or pigeonholed into particular slots, but if you had to do so, how would you describe your style?  Tommy Surya: Well, I don’t know what to say (laughing). I simply draw things I want to draw. Like many artists, my work is influenced by things that held significance when I was younger. I love [to draw] some surreal art and, comic books, as well, from back in the day and therefore much of my work is heavily influenced by those styles. Still, at the end of the day, I like to think I am putting my own twist on those influences, and making the art a reflection of me.

IAJM: How did you get your initial start in graphic design, and what about that particular medium caught your attention? Tommy Surya: I would have to say, I first started [with graphic design] in 2005. I was learning about silk screen printing (on t-shirts) when a friend of mine showed me some of the designs he was making.  I was amazed by what he created, and that inspired me to start making my own designs. As they say, real recognizes real.

  IAJM: In the city where I currently live, many people attempt to make their own shirts, but after a month or so, they fade away and quit printing. Obviously, screening is NOT an easy route to take. Tell me, if you could, what has been the most difficult aspect of screen-printing for shirts, for you? What has kept you linked to this work?  Tommy Surya: I would have to say the hardest part of screen printing, in my opinion. is to work on the film positive because I don't have electronic printer, so i have to go down town print store to print and then go back to my place. It takes more time, which does suck BUT I still love silk screen printing. I don't know what specifically has kept me linked to this pursuit, but there's a sense of joy that comes from doing this work manually. Automatic machines make it easier, but there is a feeling of accomplishment, from manually creating shirts, which cannot be replaced by new technology. The DIY vibe is way more fulfilling. Also, the kinship that comes with making those limited, custom shirts, with my friends, is so rewarding -- it's priceless.  IAJM: Who/what has been the biggest influence on your art? Who would say has given you the most motivation as far as your design work is concerned?

Tommy Surya: It's hard to list specific people, because everybody is influenced by so many people and things. But if I were to name the biggest influences of mine, I would list: Salvador Dali (for sure), Rembrandt, Frazetta, Bernie Wrightson, Sergio Toppi, and Pushead. Without question, they have had the biggest influence on my work, thus far.

IAJM: Motivation is key, in order to succeed; it's what keeps a person glued to their vision. Every artist has different reasons for doing what they do, and personal reasons for chasing their dreams. I want to know what motivates Tommy Surya to create all the things he does.

Tommy Surya: Without any question, my little family motivates me. They are my center ... they are all I need; they're the driving force behind my work.

  IAJM: Everybody has a vision of where they want to be, someday. Career wise, where do hope to be five years from now? Tommy Surya: Get back to me in a few years for more defined answer (laughing), but for now, I'm trying to build my own art studio, and just draw and paint. Again, I plan on consistently creating new things; improving each day. Every artist should be focused on bettering themselves.  

IAJM: Ok. You're right, a lot can happen in five years -- it's too far away to speculate. Rather than looking at the next five [years], where do you see yourself in the immediate future? Besides starting up your studio, what do you expect yourself to be doing?

  Tommy Surya: I have an art exhibition taking place in September, at my friend's local art gallery, and then the rest of this year I plan to do more pencil drawings and acrylic painting. The main plan is to just draw more and more every day; sharpen my skill and improve abilities.

Beyond that, I’m going to do more surrealism [art], next year, painting & drawing. I do realize I keep repeating the idea of improving my skills, but that is what I want to do. So I will keep practicing more portraits (drawing) because, personally, I feel, that is a skill, which needs to be developed the most. Lastly, my other mission is to get more local art exhibition(s) taking place in my area.

  IAJM: I think it's always important for artists to share some of the spotlight with their counterparts, so I want you to take this moment and list some of the artists/graphic designers, in your area, whom you feel are making serious waves (impact) in the world of art?

Tommy Surya: There are some truly amazing painters coming out of Indonesia, right now. Lists aren't easy, but off the head, I would say the one people should look for are: Basuki Abdullah, Raden Saleh, Affandi & Antonio Blanco. Again, those people are amazing.

  IAJM: What advice would you give to fellow graphic-designers who are out there, trying to get their work noticed? Are their particular techniques or routes they should use when trying to get noticed?

Tommy Surya: If I were to give advice I would tell designers to keep working and working. You will found what you want by practice, so don't be afraid to trying new things and expand your resume.

I would also encourage them to try and absorb all visual things around them. Lastly, and most importantly, they should try to do it (art) their own way. If they're heavily influenced by other artists, try to move outside of their shadow and make art that is your own. In other words, design your own blueprint.

    IAJM: Last question, where can people find your work online? Do have any particular websites or blogs to mention?  Tommy Surya: Right now, I only have my online portfolio with Behance: www.behance.net/toohard88. If people go there, they can find my contact information, and see more of the art I have created. Thanks!