Degas, Woody Allen and my Humble Studio in Austin.
"My art, what do you want me to say about it? Do you think you can explain the merits of a picture to those who do not see them?
"My art, what do you want me to say about it? Do you think you can explain the merits of a picture to those who do not see them?...I can find the best and clearest words to explain my meaning, and I have spoken them to the most intelligent people about art, and they have not understood; but among people who understand, words are not necessary, you say humph, he, ha and everything has been said." Edgar Degas
I recently watched Woody Allens "Midnight in Paris" for the first time (and after a long wait). It was everything I hoped it would be and more. I have been in a massive state of creation lately with a new body of work and it was a perfect film to offer me a bit of reflection on a few of my artistic hero's. I am always looking for films that can coincide with a "creative binge", films like ones that Julian Schnabel, Jean-Pierre Jeunet, Wes Anderson, Michel Gondry, or Charlie Kaufman/Spike Jonze would create. Woody did not disappoint me. So often I become like Gil and completely disappear when I enter my Paris (my studio). I often find myself in moments where I am discussing art with my dead peers, sitting for a moment in my pink studio chair and talking to Andy, Jean-Michel, Franz, Rothko, Cy , Degas or many others whose books line my bookshelves'. I get what Edgar is saying in the quote at the beginning of this post. The greatest moments for me while painting are when am talking with my artist peers and moments where words don't need to be spoken. A look, a nod or a snear, a laugh or a grunt speak volumes and encourage the moment where the brush meets the canvas.
So as I continue to master my craft as a painter, I look forward to the silent moments I spend with my hero's and search the quiet for answers and guidance as I move with the rhythm and dreams of one day becoming like them.
Interview with ArtHash
What is your name: SAMO4PREZ (Ty Clark)
Do you have a formal art education or are you a self-taught artist: I actually have both. My Uncle was a world-renowned Sculptor and Raku artist in the 60’s and 70’s showing in major galleries all over the world, so I grew up drawing, painting, coloring, sculpting and writing. Since I was little I was always creating, through high school and on to Azusa Pacific University’s School of Fine Arts where I studied under American Sculptor William Catling who was a major driving force in where I am now as an artist.
What is the style of your pieces: Currently I am painting abstract pieces with stencil, so basically my version of pop-art I guess. The majority of influence in my work are childhood memories/photographs, pop-culture influences and images from my work in the humanitarian world.
What is the medium in which you work: I am currently working with Acrylic, Oils, and Spray-paint on canvas and wood, but I am looking to incorporate fabrics pretty soon.
What started you on your path as an artist: Family, the Arts were such a huge part of my mothers family that there was no escaping it for me. I was enamored by the Arts at a very young age, my grandfather used to read Artist books to me and teach me about art history, literature and music. So as well as being born a 99.2% creative thinker, family added to the love of Art.
What is one of the most important things that art has brought to your life: Solitude. I think that silence is such an important aspect or discipline in life, we all need something that can separate us from this world, technology, business etc. Painting gives me this monastic trait, the disconnection from life for a moment in time.
What is your favorite genre of art besides the one you work in:Sculpture. It was my passion in High School and for a few years in College. I love creating and forming things with my hands, 3 dimensional objects that I can touch, walk around or be a piece of, amazes me. Standing in front of a Giacometti, William Catling, Rodin, Matt Braun or Hobbs Vincent piece brings me to life.
Do you have art showings, and if so what are they typically like: Yes I do, not as often as I would like but yes. I typically put them together on my own, grassroots or underground style through my Art Fashion Company Veritas. I belong to 2 Artist Groups (The Veritas Artist Collective and 5D Artists) so typically Artists from one or both of those groups are involved as well. I usually borrow a space or we find and empty building, warehouse etc and ask if we can use it. The majority of my shows go to support one of the humanitarian organizations that I support and work with around the world.
Do you have a certain set of clothes you make art in: I paint in a pair of ¾ cut off pants that I use as my pallet, my painting suit jacket and a pair of TOMS shoes.
What has been the most frustrating part of being an artist:The most frustrating part for all artists, finding representation, galleries, and selling work consistently enough to pay bills and live off of.
What is your favorite sandwich of all time: It would have to be grilled chicken with pesto and avocado. (SSemone) YUM
Has this year brought about any changes in your work, and if so what are they: Absolutely, I went big. My average work in the past has been around 30-40 inches in size, but this year my average sized piece has been between 6-8 feet.
Who is your favorite artist alive or dead: I don’t think I can choose one. Here are a few; Rothko, Degas, Grotz, Basquiat, Schnabel, Pollock, Warhol, Pierson, Catling, Hynum, Ellis, Johnson, Braun and Strickland.
What is the most moving piece of artwork that you have seen in person: That is easy. Jean Michel Basquiat “Untitled Skull 1981” while listening to Miles Davis on my headphones, tears.
Do you have any animals, and what do they think of your work: No animals. I am waiting for the day that I have time and space for two boxer puppies.
Do you have any upcoming exhibitions you would like to share with us: I just moved to Austin so I am currently looking for shows and artists to show with. I am showing at the Mohawk on May 26 Downtown Austin and I recently submitted work for the New Art in Austin showcase for 2011.
View the original interview here: ARTHASH