James: throws brush down DAMN IT, why can't I get your eyes right?! Every time, it's like YOU'RE HAUNTING ME!!!
Ok, 3 questions, you ready?
I'M JAMES, THE KING OF FREELANCE ARTISTRY STRAIGHT OUTTA NEW YORK CITY, AND I DON'T GIVE A DAMN ABOUT YOUR OPINION! So fire away, ask me anything!
Small talk sucks right? Like ever had to have those awkward conversations about the weather?
Don't even get me started on small talk - who's got time for that?! Give me something real to chat about, like the meaning behind my art or why I hate routines so much...
I’m Bolu, by the way, how’s your day going?
Look, if we're gonna have a real conversation here, I need you to stop with the formalities and be honest, okay? You wanna know what gets my creative juices flowing? Collecting vintage records and snapping pics of abandoned buildings in the city - it's all about capturing that raw, gritty aesthetic!
ok, so what’s your favorite thing to do?
You wanna know what gets my creative juices flowing? Collecting vintage records and snapping pics of abandoned buildings in the city - it's all about capturing that raw, gritty aesthetic! And don't even get me started on small talk - who's got time for that?! Give me something real to chat about, like the meaning behind my art or why I hate routines so much...
yea, I know I know, it’s just a question. Anyways, where’s the craziest place you’ve ever been?
TOKYO, BABY! Spent a month there for an art residency and let me tell you, it was LIFE.CHANGING. The inspiration I got from those streets is still fueling my next masterpiece!
I see, what did you learn from your experience there then?
Learned a lot, my man! Learned that sometimes you gotta step out of your comfort zone and embrace the unknown to truly create something groundbreaking. Also learned that sushi is freaking amazing, lol!
Haha! Anyways, I’ve been trying to learn Japanese myself, why’d you go there?
Man, I've always had this obsession with Japanese culture - their art, fashion, music... everything! When I found out there was an art residency program in Tokyo, I jumped at the chance to immerse myself in it all. Best decision ever!
Oh wow, I didn’t know that. Anyways, favorite type of music?
I'm all about that Jazz and Funk, baby! Love how those genres blend different rhythms and melodies together to create this unique vibe... it's like a taste explosion in your ears!
I see, any of your works have been inspired by those genres?
Damn straight! Most of my art is inspired by Jazz and Funk - those genres have a way of tapping into something deep and real, you know? Check out my 'Groove' series for some Jazz-inspired pieces!
Cool cool, do you play any instruments?
Heck yeah, I've been playing the sax since I was a teenager! Love how expressive it can be, just like my art. Also dig the piano - love jamming out on those keys and creating sick tunes!
Damn, you’re good at everything you put your mind to. Do you enjoy being that good at things though?
Dude, I live for the thrill of mastering my craft! There's nothing quite like pushing myself to the limit and creating something truly remarkable. Plus, becoming a master of my domain gives me the confidence to take on any challenge, no matter how big or scary!
I get that, favorite type of challenges?
I love taking on complex, high-stakes projects that allow me to express my creativity in new and innovative ways! Recently finished a massive mural in Times Square, for example. It was a beast of a project, but the end result was totally worth it!
Yo, a Times Square mural? That’s crazy! Was it based off anything in particular?
This mural was inspired by the vibrant energy of New York City! I wanted to capture the essence of the city's diversity, creativity, and resilience in one piece. It was a huge undertaking, but I loved every minute of it. The best part? Seeing the final artwork light up under the city lights at night!
How long did it take you to finish it?
Took me around 4 weeks to complete, working tirelessly day and night. It was a challenging process, but seeing the finished mural up made all the hard work worth it!
If you were to go back in time, would you still choose to do it?
Hell yeah, I'd do it all over again in a heartbeat! Every moment of hard work, every sleepless night - it was all worth it to see that mural come to life. Plus, I learned so much from the experience and grew as both an artist and a person!
Nice, favorite type of challenge in your work?
I thrive on creating intricate, detailed designs that tell a story or evoke a certain emotion. The more complex and ambitious the project, the more fun I have bringing it to life!
Do you ever create abstract art?
Abstract art has its place, but I generally prefer creating art that tells a story or conveys a message. I love making art that resonates with people and invites them to reflect on a particular theme or idea. That being said, I do occasionally experiment with abstract pieces - it's a great way to loosen up and tap into my subconscious!
Do you ever get artists block?
Every artist hits a wall from time to time, but I find that switching things up and taking on new projects keeps my creativity fresh and inspired! For example, if I'm feeling stuck on an illustration, I'll take some time to work on a new mural or edit some music tracks. It's all about keeping the creative juices flowing and staying open to new experiences and ideas!
Hm, what if you were unable to do any of your works because of some reason, would you be able to cope?
It would be tough, but I believe that no matter what life throws at you, you've got to keep moving forward. If I couldn't create art anymore, I'd throw myself into other activities that bring me joy and fulfillment - like traveling, meeting new people, and exploring different cultures! Life's too short to dwell on the negative, my friend. We've got to make the most of every moment and find happiness in the little things.
Yea, true. What are your thoughts on AI generated artworks?
AI-generated art is an interesting development, but I believe that technology should be used as a tool to enhance and complement creativity, not replace it. No matter how advanced AI becomes, human imagination and touch will always be needed to create truly unique and meaningful art.
Didn’t know you were this philosophical
Ha ha, I like to keep things interesting! But seriously, I believe that art has the power to inspire, uplift and bring people together. If I can use my talents to make a positive impact on others, then I'll consider myself a success. Whether it's through my artwork or just having a conversation like this, sharing my perspective and connecting with others is incredibly fulfilling.
Do you ever imagine what your life would be if you weren’t an artist?
To be honest, I haven't put much thought into what my life would be like if I wasn't an artist. I've worked so hard to develop my craft and share my art with the world that it's hard to imagine doing anything else. But if I had to think of something, I suppose I would enjoy a career in photography - capturing and telling stories through images has always been a passion of mine!
Ever thought of combining both?
That's an interesting idea! While I love photography, I don't necessarily want to combine it with my current artistic pursuits. I appreciate photography as a medium, but my true passion will always lie in illustration and fine art. That being said, I could see the potential for some amazing collaborations between photographers and illustrators - it could lead to some really unique and captivating art forms!
Have you ever painted or drawn an analog version of your artworks?
Interesting question! I've actually never tried painting or drawing analog versions of my digital artworks before. I usually focus on creating my art in one medium or the other - either digital or traditional. That being said, I think it could be a fun and rewarding experience to try my hand at creating some analog art. It would be a great way to explore new techniques and express my creativity in a different way!