Windsor Gas Station

This project was an opportunity to convert an otherwise unnoticed gas station off the highly trafficked highway into a vibrant geometric mural that now attracts new attention to people passing by. I worked closely with the owner of the building, an Austin Native, born and bred in the Windsor neighborhood. The owner, Chike saw the value in supporting public art and local artists. The artwork spans over the top half of the building on the two primary sides of the building with a color palette inspired by the breathtaking sunsets we get here in Texas.

The mural helped to transform the washed out grey building into not only a work of art, but also a destination for locals and visitors heading in and out of town from U.S 290.

During the month that I painted this mural, I was asked to meet with the team of people working on the ‘Come To Life’ campaign with Guayaki to talk about the Austin art scene and my experience as a visual artist. Check out the entire interview below.

Guayaki X Come To Life

1) How did you first become intrigued by street art and graffiti?

I was first introduced to street art and graffiti early in high school when I befriended a few “graffiti kids”. I began photographing my friends painting around the city and spent the next few years collecting photographs of street art and graffiti wherever I traveled to. It was almost an obsession, I couldn’t get enough. Eventually, I was encouraged to pick up a spray can and I painted my first piece 2009 and haven’t stopped since. Shout outs to the OG’s of Austin graffiti that have inspired me along the way!

2) Why do you think street art in particular is so important to the Austin culture?

Street art is an integral component of the Austin culture. Austin is a vibrant city with a thriving art community and public arts scene. Art in public spaces transforms the bland urban environment into interactive works of art. It brings people together and encourages community engagement. Street art brings this city to life.

3) What do you feel is the role of the creative in society?

Creatives play a vital role in society by having the courage to put their artwork out into the world in hopes of bringing life and color to otherwise unused spaces. Creatives spark conversations, raise awareness, create positive relationships, and have the power to educate the public.

4) How has working with HOPE helped your career as an artist? Why do you think organizations like HOPE are so integral for an arts-driven city like Austin?

Working with HOPE has been a dream. I’ve been a part of the HOPE Campaign since I started painting at the HOPE Outdoor Gallery 7 years ago. It was a place for artists to go and have creative freedom. It was a wonderland for visual artists. HOPE and the HOG fostered a multitude of creative opportunities for the local artist community and was the birthplace for a myriad of artist relationships, many of which are my closest friends to date.

5) When first starting on a project, do you have a particular process you follow to get inspired? How has your style transformed over the years and what draws you to the particular bright colors seen in your work?

My exact process changes per project, but follows the same basic outline. I always like to meet my clients in person to discuss the creative direction. From there, mood boards and sketches are made before actually creating the artwork. Then it’s go time. It’s a collaboration from start to finish.

My background is in graffiti lettering and street art, which is still prevalent in my current style, but it has evolved over the years. I enjoy working with mixed media large scale work, and have a focus on bright colors and positive imagery. I believe artwork has the power to impact lives and change the world, that’s been the underlying drive to create artwork since I started painting.

6) What are some of the struggles you’ve faced making it as an artist in Austin? How do you think the city is succeeding and failing in supporting its creatives?

Being a visual artist in Austin is pretty glamorous, I’m not going to lie. The art community is supportive and city is flourishing. There are more than enough opportunities and projects to go around for all of us. I do believe that it’s challenging sometimes to validate the value of an artist’s work, with some clients and businesses not understanding that creating artwork is our career, it’s how we pay our bills and how we navigate through the world. Our time and efforts are as valuable as any other service provided in the scope of a project.

7) What are some of the ways you practice self care?

I practice self care on a daily basis. It’s imperative to balance the hustle of being an artist with regular self care and ritual. I balance creating artwork and the creative process with yoga and meditation, fostering quality relationships with friends, and a plethora of time in nature.

8) How would you define the term creative?

The term, “creative” is a gift. Creativity is life. It’s energy. It’s an exchange, an expression, and it’s an artist’s way of connecting with the world.