Coast to Coast City to City:Pac Div

 Slowly but surely, West Coast rap is becoming relevant again(Wait Snoop Dogg single not out ?? shit backspace) REDO!!!.There’s nothing like the feeling of seeing an artist/group you follow grow from e-hype to mainstream praise. Pac Div ain’t exactly mainstream yet but give them a couple more months and they will be. They caught my attention a couple years ago(2006) while out at the Garden of Eden where they were performing "Ack like U chillin". That was back when they were known as Pacific Division and unsigned.Now what sets this group out from the rest is that they never broke who they are, in the era of "Gangsta" the "Hyphy" movement and now "Jerking" they stay Pac Div they did not change up ,they did them.

They spent ‘08 dropping videos for their other E-hits like Fat Boys ‘08, Taste, and Women Problems. Add a couple of mixtape spots and i’d say they had a strong year even though their label, Universal, didn’t appear to do too much to help(No shots #Imjustsaying).So I got a e-mail and a call and a text that  told me their music video for mayor got played on MTV Jams and I got excited. Sure it’s not MTV Uno but it’s a start. Besides when I had jams years ago they only played like 10-15 videos a day in the SAME rotation. This break, along with the release of Church League Champions  last month prove that the group is on a mean streak.
    
It’s about time Universal gave them some shine. They’ve been signed for a year and are finally getting their shots at success.
    
Anyway Pac Div is reppin’ the Western Conference hard without falling into the gangbanging trappings of their forefathers. I think it’s a refreshing change of pace. Don’t deny it. Most rappers that manage to make it out the West have to either play up or act like they put in work in a gang somehow(Or get on tv and dance). If not that, they used to be drug dealers (to be fair, mad rappers out down south pull that same hat too.) This of course leads to a lot of tired perpetrating until they’re inevitably exposed(Insert you favorite rapper name here). Sure, “keepin’ it real” isn’t really enforced anymore. But I’ll believe and support Pac Div’s M-O before most acts out now.

KING DUCE

I’m often asked, “What is King Duce?”

For me, personally, King Duce is my canvas that allows me to create music, fashion, film and collaborate with other artists who inspire me to explore and celebrate their work. I’ve never been interested in mastering one art form or defining art into suffocating categories. I just like the process of expressing what I feel, see and hear, in whatever creative form it takes. And often times it’s a mixture of art forms wrapped into a single piece. And that’s why King Duce is a constantly changing collage made up of all the art forms that I explored growing up: music, painting, writing, athletics, film and photography.

This artistic collage approach is probably rooted in my first love of music, which is made up of invisible, yet colorful and fluid waves that come from an infinite vastness that I can’t even begin to understand or define. All I know is that when I’m moved to tears by music, and the people expressing it, I know I’ve connected to something beyond my comprehension. It begs the question, “Why does art need to be defined?” To me, the “Answer” is in how it makes us “Feel”. And, to me, that’s what art should be for everyone, regardless of what people want to call it.

My first collaboration was actually with my wife Becky. Before we started King Duce, she introduced me to fashion and dance as important art forms back when we were dating in high school. Like many people, I ignorantly viewed fashion as a superficial thing. I now admit that I was totally wrong. And as I opened my mind up and listened, I began to earn a deep respect for fashion as an amazing art form that allowed people to express themselves, similar to that of a painting or a song. Becky has always created her own outfits using a blend of second hand stores, sewing, and discovering trippy cool accessories from anywhere off the beaten path. Then, depending on her mood, she would intuitively assemble these pieces into an outfit that would be uniquely her own. Thank God I eventually recognized this because my country boy fashion sensibility growing up was a predictable template of Levi’s, concert t-shirts, high tops and, yes, a mullet. There, I admitted it. Now let’s move on and never speak of the mullet again!

Often times, true inspiration comes in the simple moments interacting with another person and being open to look outside ourselves and appreciating their individual expression. For example, watching my wife teach art to mentally challenged kids and seeing them light up because they created something beautiful is art in its purest form. That’s as awe inspiring to me as the music of Beethoven; the paintings of Van Gogh; or the writings of Shakespeare.

King Duce was created to give all of us the platform to create and express our own unique voice. And that’s what art and life is really about. In this light speed world of outside pressures, we spend much of our time worrying about what we are not, rather than embracing and celebrating what and who we are. Art is about fluid motion and feel. And so is a person’s life. We all have our own unique gifts. So take the time to get to know what inspires you. And with a little determination and belief in yourself you will create anything you dream. It’s already inside of you.

How did you come up with the name King Duce ?

Rockwell – My close friend Kevin “Duce” Kimble was murdered back in 06.  He shared and supported my vision, introduced me to Oakland rap star Keak Da Sneakand the Nor Cal underground rap scene.  I came up with King Duce on the way to Kevin’s funeral.  I felt that this was a way to honor his memory and keep the dream alive.

When did you realize your love of fashion?

Rockwell – my wife Becky has always been very fashion minded.  She brought this element to King Duce and has been a driving force behind it from the beginning.  Today she is handling designs and sales, especially related to the women’s line.  We also get a lot of great input from our musicians and pro athletes.  They are on the cutting edge and know what’s hot.  My focus has always been on the music and branding elements.  I can barely match my socks!

Who makes up the King Duce team?

Rockwell – King Duce is a family of people from all different backgrounds.  That’s why our brand speaks to such a large audience.  I grew up hanging with people from every social group imaginable (athletes, artists, musicians, etc).  I incorporated this same philosophy into our team.  We have musicians like Keak Da Sneak and E-40, pro athletes in action sports and the NFL like Superbowl champ Michael Pitman, branding and clothing icons like Element creator Andy Howell; world class fashion models like Brazillian star Nataniele Ribeiro;  and young talent from every corner of the game.  I believe in having different perspectives in order to grow a brand that is relevant to our audience. 

What characteristics embody a King Duce consumer?

Rockwell – the King Duce customer is someone who identifies with an authentic brand that speaks to their lifestyle.  We aren’t trying to be something to everyone.  We are simply creating quality music and products with an attitude that is honest.  Our customers respect this.

What are some of the pro's and con's that you face being the boss?

Rockwell – King Duce allows me the freedom to create on all levels.  I have always been an entrepreneur and love the challenge of building something from scratch and working with talented and passionate people.  There’s not much downside to that.

What do you feel like is your greatest achievement so far?

Rockwell – the greatest achievement is seeing a new person connect with King Duce and make it their own.  That’s what it’s all about. 

What’s next for you?
Rockwell – we are growing fast and we are feeding this growth with new limited edition hats and apparel this fall and holiday.   All our newest stuff hits our online store first at www.kingduce.com.  Thanks for checking us out. Duce Up!!

BloodBath "The City Of Roses"

How did you come up with the name BloodBath?
As cliche as it sounds, the name found me.

Years before the brand started, I was at a KRS One show in Long Beach, and I spotted a label on a shirt that read: "Bloodbath". Upon closer inspection, I realized that I misread the name.  I forgot what it said, but

I never forgot Bloodbath.
Blood represents life, death, sacrifice, martyrdom, and family.
Bath represents a clean style, refreshing designs, and renewing yourself.
Bloodbath's mission and acronym is:
Breaking Locks On Open Doors , Boundaries Are Through Habit.
The locks are limitations and obstacles. The doors are your opportunities and goals.
The lock is within yourself. It is something that has been trained into you growing up; from society, history, racism, sexism, etc.  We are here to break that mold.  This is our mission as a company..
Keep it clean!

When did you realize you wanted to do fashion? 
I grew up around art all my life. I used to draw comics, took calligraphy, built models.
High School and College was filled with graffiti and fine art. I graduated with a Graphic Design degree.
I've always wanted to do art that influenced the like minded. I started printing up some tee's under the Bloodbath label mainly for myself and friends to wear... a year after that I luckily met some good partners to work with and it became official.

What characteristics embody a BloodBath consumer?
We are not what we seem. We move in silence. We look, listen and observe. We question everything...  We forgive but never forget.  We keep our style clean and aggressive.
The identity of our supporters will become more defined as each season unfolds.

What do you feel like is your greatest achievement so far?
Doing what we love and making it what we do.

Tell us about the collaboration with Brooklyn Projects, how did that come about ?  
Dom offered us the opportunity and we are honored to build with Brooklyn Projects.
The collaboration is a commemorative piece for BP's new Pasadena location. Since Pasadena is dubbed "The City of Roses" - the design was to revolve around that concept.  This limited edition tee shirt will be offered in 2 colorways (White and Black) at Brooklyn Projects, Pasadena.
For drop dates and more info make sure to check in at: Bloodbathproject.com   / Brooklynprojects.com

Who makes up the BloodBath team?
Here is a quick roll call: EZ, Trev, Patterson, All Dway, and myself Rome One.
We keep it close-knit. Each of us handle different aspects of the company, but are also all around players.
We also wear uniforms to work and speak a secret language.

lol That's funny might have been "Bubble Bath" ha!.
Yea, it could have been "BingBong " for all I know...ahahaha.

So what's the thought process for BloodBath when coming up with a new T-Shirt ?
Tee's are fun because I treat them more like a wearable canvas.  When I am working on cut & sew stuff it actually feels like making clothing.
As for the thought process I work outside in. Each season is built around a concept. We usually have a tee shirt to serve as a title piece; a "cover page" to that season's theme. Choosing a theme for a collection can make things easier, and at times much more difficult.

Each tee design is then filtered by the conceptual basis of that season.. I draw inspiration from anything and everything that comes to mind from thinking of our theme.
For instance, our Fall 2009 is dubbed:  "Draw First Blood" - so we kept the designs aggressive, and also played off the word "Draw" and included hand-drawn elements in every piece.

One of the Fall shirts is titled: "Escher".  For this design I flipped the original art from M.C.Escher's "Drawing Hands"  - where it is two hands drawing each other at the same time.  I redrew the piece and added a dagger being held with the hands instead of pencils.  Once the design is drawn and inked, I scan it into the computer to clean it up and get it set for printing.

Do you find yourself more inspired by fashion or things external to the fashion world?
That's a great question.
I get inspired by both.

Fashion lets me see what other brands are doing, who's pushing the envelope, and the trends that emerge.
I tend to look at fashion to figure out what NOT to do.  I respect many brands out there, and it's not just their designs that are dope...it's their brand as a whole.
But as for a certain look or style, Bloodbath definitely is always striving to carve our own identity.  Inspiration comes from our life and what we do.
I wouldn't be able to design anything if I just sat in front of the computer all day. Usually the greatest artists lived the craziest lives.

We exhale a filtered version of what we inhale.

For some of the up and coming brands, what are some of the overlooked tasks that you had to complete during start-up that they may not be aware of but definitely need to know about ?
Man! We are still figuring that out everyday...

One thing when you are starting a brand: Start ahead. When you are new, take advantage and start with a future season that you have time to sell for.

How do you intend on keeping your brand image that of one consumers will actively want to associate with?
We keep it true. Not just true to what we want, but we keep it honest. We don't go out and pay for some big star to wear our gear. The influential heads that rock Bloodbath genuinely like and support what we do. In turn, we need to truly respect and support their grind as well- before we even work together.

I feel that a conscious consumer can see right through the bullshit anyway. We aren't trying to fit in with "streetwear", we are focused on pioneering our own path.
You can see it from our name, our designs, and our way of life.  We have not chosen the "safe route".  We listen to our heart and use our heads to make the best decision.

All of this attracts like minded individuals that support us - and in turn we support them.

What are some daily design challenges that you face?
Everyday is filled with deadlines. Being creative is not something you can turn on and off like a light switch.
It's easy to design when you "feel" like it - but try doing art when you are hungry and tired.... my stuff comes out shitty.

Another challenge is functional design.  It needs to adhere with your budget, your printing capabilities, and all the practical things - as well as the form and look of the design.   100% Form. 100% Function. It's always a battle trying to get there.

So you mention that you want to set your own path and not trying to fit in with "streetwear", with that being said what do BloodBath have for the future ?
We have a cut & sew program launching in Spring '10. We have projects coming up that are very different from our past collaborations. Well make sure to plug you in once they are ready to announce. Bloodbath will be expanding our product line into more than clothing, bags, accessories, etc. Seasonal mixtape's will be dropping with every collection...

I have always wonder how a design is took from a sheet of paper to the cpu is really that simple as drawing and inking or is it more ? If you could walk us through this. 
Usually I start with a really rough sketch of loose ideas. Then I pick what I feel is most successful and hone it down and only keep what is needed, add what it lacks. During this process the concepts get tighter and we explore methods of execution. Then we design and set up the art on the comp.  Once the art is mocked up - we get together as a crew and figure out it's strengths and weaknesses....final changes are made. Colorways are explored....and finally samples are made.

You said "We(BloodBath) have not chosen the safe route".But is there a design that you have done but got a feeling like "This might be to much for them to like" and never put that said design out ?
Yes, we don't use everything we ideate.  Initially when we started we were hesitant about what to put out...as our following grew - our identity began to solidify. Now, we have more of a checklist of things that each design must fulfill before we run it.

What's the dream collaboration for BloodBath ?
We are already blessed with the people we have built with and build with now. Each project we do is a dream a year ago. We hope that our progression maintains it's steady flow - and we thank everyone for supporting us and helping us grow. We will not forget it.


Have you guys started talking about what you will be doing for spring 2010 ? And if so can you spill the beans ?
Our debut Cut & Sew program. Look out for it - it's pretty cool.

Warped Tour 2009

It's 6:45 a.m and I'm getting ready to go to the greatest tour on earth. Nah not the Circus, The Vans Warped Tour 2009(Atlanta).Now going to a music festival in 100 degree weather is crazy but hey its worth it, its Vans Man(lol).Got to love Sweating while just standing still, in the shade, just isn't the time for a circle pit you must be out of your mind. Warped Tour is something that I plan my summer around, and just got to be ready when they come to Atlanta.Chiodos,Less Than Jake, 3oh!3 and Forever The Sickest Kids are just some of the name that are on the bill of 66 bands set to play in Hotlanta .

Warped Tour doors(so to speak) opened at 11a.m and kids races to the Vans tent hopping to be one of the first to yell "Hotlanta" and claim a FREE Vans prize package that include your choice of Vans sunglasses(Blue,Red,Purple,White) or playing cards. Vans also did a Food Bank with I thought was really great(love the world feed the planet).Yeah give back.

There seemed to be a running joke around the festival that the bands keep getting older and the fans are getting younger and younger, but is this necessarily a bad thing? When I was looking around I saw people of all walks, young and old, hanging out and having a great time. While Warped Tour overall has become a bit of a scene kid haven, this years line-up proved they could still stay true to their roots while providing entertainment for everyone. There were a ton bands playing at various stages across the venue, so it was definitely quite the difficult decision when deciding who to go check out! That is the beauty of Warped Tour, being surrounded by dope ass music all day long.

It is also of note that not only was a difficult decision to decide which bands to check out on various stages, there was also a dilemma in attempting to navigate through all the various tents, vendors, and activists who were on site as well. My Swag crew was fortunate enough to discover a jewel in the vendor area, and that jewel was the huge pink Amethyst Jeans truck giving away free pairs of jeans to concert attendees! Score! oops I mean Swag! hahaha!

Tumbler and Tipsy

Fashion comes in waves like the ocean and you never quite know what’s going to stick and what’s going to turn into the “back of the closet” décor. Tumbler and Tipsy bring a spark to vintage clothing that has not yet been seen before. They break out of the dull and mundane, spicing things up while keeping their clothing completely eco friendly. Tumbler and Tipsy bring beauty to each piece of clothing focusing on an English aesthetic, that radiates beyond the common sense of the word clothing.


What is the inspiration behind the brand name Tumbler and Tipsy?
Tumbler and Tipsy is a fun, unique, one of a kind fashion label that is also environmentally friendly. The name itself comes from an old English saying which is kind of the theme throughout the entire line…it has that English Aesthetic.

How do you make the line eco friendly?
Tumbler and Tipsy uses quality vintage recycled clothing that is deconstructed and reconstructed into a new modern garment. The line also features vintage and antique embellishments such as our 1970's Russian Military Pins that are placed on most of our Fall 2009 collection.

What was the biggest challenge when it came to creating this brand?
I think the biggest challenge creating the brand was having enough time to put into a new company. I coach figure skating on the weekends and am a full time student as well, so there never seems to be enough hours in the day.

Has figure skating played a big part in the creative process of your clothing line?
Figure skating has played a huge part in the creative process of building and designing Tumbler and Tipsy. The sport has allowed me to travel all over the world and experience very diverse cultures. I have then taken my travels and have now incorporated them into my designs which is one of the reasons my whole collection has that old English feel. Also, as many people know, figure skaters are known for their beautiful, elaborate, and detailed costumes…being around that kind of fashion really helped open up my mind and made me look at fashion in a more whimsical and creative way.


What are some of the things we can expect to see from this company in the future?
I would love to expand the label into children’s clothing which is my next big adventure. I am also working towards launching the line overseas, I would love to see Tumbler and Tipsy in places like Japan!

What do you feel like is your greatest achievement so far?
I think my greatest achievement so far is people actually wearing and buying my clothes!!!! To be recognized for my work is an incredible feeling because I have put my heart and soul into my collection.

Where can you find this brand in stores?
Tumbler and Tipsy is currently available across the United States in Boutiques and online stores such as Handmade Galleries in Los Angeles, Fiona Stone Boutique in Hartford, CT, PoshandPrim.com, and Bukiandoscar.com. We also have our own online store which is located at www.TumblerandTipsyStore.com.

What kind of cultural aspects went into creating your clothing?
I have traveled extensively over past few years because of my professional figure skating career, so the countries I have visited have definitely played a role in my collection. I think there are many cultural aspects that have gone into creating my line but as I said before the whole English Aesthetic has really played a big role in my line and vision. I have also always been really inspired by Jackie O and her style so that will always have a hand in my creations.

How was the name Tumbler and Tipsy created?
Tumbler and Tipsy is from an old English saying, “Too Many Tumbler of Whiskey Will Make You A Lil’Bit Tipsy”. For some reason the name just stuck with me and the rest is history!

What is something that stands out about your clothing brand?
My clothing brand is a one of a kind vintage reconstruction line that features both men and women environmentally friendly garments. Each piece is hand crafted, exclusive and one of kind, so no two pieces will ever be the same.

How long have you been in business?
Tumbler and Tipsy launched February 2009.

What stands out about the brand that will make a buyer choose your clothing over another?
Tumbler and Tipsy is good for the environment and people are slowly starting to realize how important it is to make simple adjustments to save the planet. I am hoping that my line will help guide people to make that change. Aside from being environmentally conscious my line offers one of a kind clothing and we specialize in making our pieces exclusive.

When you design vintage clothing are there any time periods in general that you use for inspiration?
I let the garments speak to me on their history. You can tell a lot from the time period of the piece and the condition it is in. The garment will let me know what needs to be reconstructed. Generally I work with pieces from the 1920s to 1980s.

Is there any advice you can offer someone wanting to start their own clothing line?
I think the best advice I can offer someone who wants to start their own label is to be prepared to work VERY hard. Starting your own company is a very challenging but rewarding adventure…for me it has been a 24/7 project since the day I started!

How do you make the line eco friendly?
Tumbler and Tipsy uses quality vintage recycled clothing that is deconstructed and reconstructed into a new modern garment. The line also features vintage and antique embellishments such as our 1970's Russian Military Pins that are placed on most of our Fall 2009 collection. Has figure skating played a big part in the creative process of your clothing line?Figure skating has played a huge part in the creative process of building and designing Tumbler and Tipsy. The sport has allowed me to travel all over the world and experience very diverse cultures. I have then taken my travels and have now incorporated them into my designs which is one of the reasons my whole collection has that old English feel. Also, as many people know, figure skaters are known for their beautiful, elaborate, and detailed costumes…being around that kind of fashion really helped open up my mind and made me look at fashion in a more whimsical and creative way.
More on Tumbler and Tipsy check out www.tumblerandtipsy.com

R Max Clothing

First things first who are you? Where are you from?
I’m Russell “R Max” Maxwell, artist / designer I’m from Savannah, Ga. Its bout 31/2 hours from Atlanta, GA

Describe fashion, where you are based at?
My line consist of graphix t-shirts. The t-shirts display pieces of my personal artwork. My artwork has been described as urban pop art. My art is influenced by Andy Warhol, Jean-Micheal Basquiat, and movie / video director Hype Williams. I’m based out of Atlanta…Stone Mountain to be exact.

What major factors encouraged you to create the brand?
I started out creating designs for print and canvas. A few years back a friend requested I make a t-shirt of one of my designs. I researched and found a process in which this could be done without losing the vibrate colors of my designs. I received such a good response from the t-shirt, I made more. The R Max brand was born.


How has the brand grown since its inception?
Since the first t-shirt, the line has been well received. I’ve received recognition on television and the big screen. T-shirts from the line have appeared in the film, 'Stomp The Yard', and on 'BET's 106 & Park' & BET's 'Spring Bling' and MTV's 'Wild 'n' Out'. The t-shirts has also appeared in several music videos including Yung Joc's 'I'm a G', Big Boi's (OutKast) 'Kryptonite' & 'Morris Brown' and Gorilla Zoe's 'Hood Figga' & 'Juicebox'. The line has also graced the pages of national publications such as Scratch and XXL magazines. In addition to the original and 'X' lines, custom designs have been created for video director, Dr. Teeth; music artists Jay Z, Puffy, 50 Cent, Killer Mike, Flava Flav, and Janet Jackson; and for Radio One Morning Show hosts across the nation.

You know, the number of true connoisseurs in fashion remains more or less the same. There are those who originate with benefit, opposite those who imitate with counterfeit. Though in streetwear, everyone eats at the same table. Having the wherewithal of this, how do you handle something so personal without becoming plastic?
I try to stay true to me and create designs that inspire or provoke me.

R Max seems like it is all about positive undertones. How do you react when people hate on your products?
Art is in the eye of the beholder and as long as my pieces provoke a reaction my job is done.

Being in business for yourself what are the pros and cons?
I love working for me…it’s very rewarding and sometimes frustrating, but nothing beats being the boss and lovin what you do. However I also have a great 9 to 5. lol

What were some of the biggest challenges for growing RMax in its early years?
The biggest challenge has been lack of knowledge of the fashion industry. I’ve been reading, learning, and just doing.
Do you have any plans to expand the brand beyond t-shirts?
Yes, I’m currently working with another designer to design a line of jeans and casual suits.
What's the biggest stereotype that your brand catch?
My biggest stereotype is that the line is a street brand that only appeals to hood n**gas that like nasty girls on their t-shirt. However I have pastors, white guys, females, etc. rocking my t-shirts.
Any other brands that you are planning or would like to collaborate with?
I haven’t thought about any colabs at the moment, I’m just trying to get more exposure for the R Max brand.
Where is the brand currently being distributed?
Colour Painting Trends - Auburndale, FL; Flava - Whats Yo! - Valdosta, GA; Nu-Fashions - Columbus, GA; Raw Blue - Newport News, VA; Fashion Forward - Burlington, NC; Mike Express - Nashville, TN and also at www.rmaxclothing.com
What are some of the themes behind you shirts?
I would say my designs are from things that inspire me, from music, music videos, movies, current events, other artists…basically life in general.
Tell us about your background in fashion and design.
Actually my background in fashion is short, however I’ve always been into art. I’ve been drawing since elementary school. I started doing logos and flyers once I moved to Atlanta. A few years later I started producing art for print, which led me to the t-shirt line.
How does a brand in today’s fashion market stay innovative?
The best way to stay innovative is to stay true to yourself and not be afraid to take risk.

What characteristics embody a R Max consumer?
My consumers are everyone, everyone has an eye for art and can see the art in my line. My art has a wide range of themes and so does my consumers. I have designs that pastors of the church wear to designs rocked by the hood.

What else are you up to at the moment that people should be aware of ?
I’m currently planning an All-White viewing party in Savannah for the 4th of July. The event is sponsored by Patron.

How, if at all, do you work differently when designing for a t-shirt compared to other media?
When I design logos, flyers, or website it’s the clients vision I’m designing around. When I’m working on one of my pieces it’s my vision.

What is your personal favorite piece from the collection and why?
I love all of my designs but if I have to choose it would be one of the first designs I created for a t-shirt…design #05. Design #05 seems as it’s coming out of the t-shirt…3D effect.

Where will RMax be in five years?
Creating.
Any last words?
I would like to thank all of my supporters, and thank you for this opportunity.

Signtologist

Sintologist is an interesting name, where did it derive from?
Signtologist came from Black Thought front man of The Roots after meeting him in boulder presenting him a painting of The Roots and givin him a lift back to his hotel he signed a record sleeve for me and made it out to The Signtologist the second i read it i asked him can i use this and he gave me the ok that was in 2006
I noticed20on your web site that you’re from Denver , what kind of inspiration have you drawn from there and put into your work?
I am a 2nd generation native of Denver, Co the Mile High City. I love my city and am filled with constant inspiration from not only the city itself but 20the surrounding wildlife and the amazing mountains. After growing up in Denver I always was into all forms of art at a young age thanks to my mom who is also an artist. Once hip hop was introduced into my life i began to look my urban surr ounding in a different light. To see the beauty of a glowing stop sign at the end of the block or the intensity of a downtown alley. I started to try and express these things thru my art but nothing convey them as well as when i started painting on street signs.

Who are your major inspirations?
After studying art for years i am influenced from all types of artists renaissance masters to cartoons. My most major influences to name a few are Justin BUA, Iceberg Slick, Andy Warhol , along my artistic journey i would strive to emulate characteristics of their work in mine. I have a broad range of apprec iation for art in all=2 0forms thou so I am influenced daily by all the artists i have the privilege of working with through out my career.
How did you come up with the idea to create painting on street signs?
Total accident ran out of supplies on a late night art school project and needed to come up with something stepped outside to get20my thoughts together and the answer was starting me right in the face in my carport. Needless to say it wasn't a success for my project but started me on my way in this niche.
How do you make your portraits so true to life?
I work from photographs for references for the subject and then just let the rest happen i welcome accidents in all my work some of the best things come accidents.

When did you realize this was something that you wanted to do professionally?
After I gifted away my first 3 pieces and the response i got from people and groups i respected very much who helped to=2 0shape my craft. I realized as we conversed20they were treating me like a fellow artist and were so very supportive it opened my eyes to what i had stumbled onto.
What do you feel is your greatest accomplishment so far?
Every step i take forward at my craft is my greatest accomplishment, the progression of everything i am most proud of. I mean I started out from a n accident to opening up a company and becoming a 'Green Artist" it is an amazing journey with so much more ah ead. I have met so many people i admire and respect and been able to give back to them the inspiration they once gave to20me. If it all ended tomorrow i could walk away satisfied and accomplished, but for the mean time will keep pushin forward and enjoyin the ride.

What technique do you use when you decide to sit down and paint?
Whenever inspiration beckons i am20at it's whim i have to just go with it and let go. Usually i will choose subjects in advance and have then lying around the studio for when i'm feeling it, then i start out with choosing a sign and laying down a sharpie outline. Nex t is adding of sticker scraps in some cases and then the painting process starts. There is always allot of reworking during the process which is why i shy away from painting live.
How do you feel your paintings have evolved from the first one to the most recent?
My work is always evolving i keep my very first painting in my studio right by my easel so i can look at it as i work on new pieces. Every year i add new techniques and mediums most recently i have been=2 0dabbling in new canvases from snowboards to shirts,=2 0shoes and even sunglasses. I love the trail and error involved in experimentation of my craft in all aspects, just the hope of evolution for this niche of street art i have pioneered keeps me coming back.. lol

What is your ultimate direction for your work?
As an this stemmed from an accident i put no expectations on me or my work this, is my outlet with that being said the directions this could take me in are endless.

How can fans of your work access to your paintings and order them for their own homes?
I am launching a new site under my company www.thesigntologist.com this should be up in July 09 with a catalog of merchandise as wel l as info on ordering originals. But for now visit any of these sites to keep up with me:www.streetsignartist.com
www.myspace.com/streetsignartist
http://twitter.com/ THESIGNTOLOGIST
http://www.flickr.com/photos/thesigntologist/
http://artst.com/profile/signtologist

What is the average cost of one of your paintings?
Original paintings start at 300 and go up well into the thousands. However that is why i am launching www.thesigntologist.co m with more options for merchandise at different price points for all budgets.

What advice do you have for someone who wants to become an artist?
Do you first and foremost this is my outlet it keeps me grounded, never give up on your passion no matter what you encounter along the way it's a part of forming your craft seek out critiques with an open mind. take advice and move forward always keep your focus. And remember all us artists gotta stick together!

Do you believe that hip hop influences many of your paintings?
I always listen to music when i paint typically i listen to hip hop but have love of all types of music. I would say yes hip hop had a huge part in the influence of my artwork, if anything me using my gift is how i give back to the Hip Hop culture.
What is one thing that you would like to accomplish with your work in the future?
To leave a mark

When you are creating, is there a certain environment that you require?
I usually work in my studio located in my home, I am definitely most comfortable in that setting.

A lot of artists feel like their most recent work is their best work. Do you agree?
Yes I agree with this statement I enjoy watching my work evolve. However just to keep things in perspective i have my very first piece hung in my studio right behind my easel so i can see it as i paint.

Where would you ultimately like to see your work displayed: along open city walls or on a canvas in an art gallery?
I would love to get into some work into museums and more galleries around the20world. If i was also allowed to do outside installations i think that would be a great learning experience. I like that my art provides me many options , the possibilities are endless and look forward to where my craft takes me.
That's cool how did the artist hear about your work?
The other artists at summer jam you mean ? The hip hop station here ks 107.5 sponsers summer jam every year here in colorado they got me a backst age pass and some tickets to the show. Then allowed me conduct my bizness backstage Flo Rida's camp said had checked the picture the station had sent earlier that week to all the artists respective labels of my paintings. Flo Rida's camp also sent me a thank you note following the show which was really cool and a nice surpirse as that usually doesn't happen. But most of the artist at this show were introduced to my work that night I assume, T - Pain took his on stage with him and his big ass chain for his set. It was an interresting experience and a very fun night to say the least.

Most of your art is made on sighs now do you go to the same spot to get signs or different spots here and there ?
I get them thru city sources all over Colorado all legit , I get these sources old used discarded signs and recycle them into art. I also recycle their reflective sticker scraps from the production of the signs. No stealing for me i realized how fragile this medium i have chosen is and that i need to approach as smart as possible. That is=2 0why i have been stepping my game up getting lawyers, copyrights, opening an LLC just trying to implement as many things to protect me and my artwork now and in the future.