What was the moment in your life that caused you to follow your passion of becoming an artist?
It has really been more of a gradually developing interest. From a young age, I have been fascinated with words. It started simply with reading novels and short stories. I then developed a taste for poetry, entering several contests and doing well. I also collected quotations and started paying attention to sound bites, advertising, slogans, etc. It was my father who got me interested in garage sales and vintage items. I now combine the vintage letters into my own word creations.
Do you have an academic background in your chosen media or are you self-taught?
I am a self taught artist, learning techniques as I need them and sometimes outsourcing to a skilled artisan when I need a special effect.
What is your inspiration for your work?
I take much of my inspiration from everyday occurrences. I tend to examine the world around me so I can sift through all the material to find the golden nuggets I want to highlight in my art.
How has your work evolved over the years?
I have become more adventurous with materials and techniques. It is a great feeling when I can create something that resembles what I see in my head.
Does your work have a particular message? If so, how have you seen the public interpret your work?
My art tends to have a more obvious message than most due to the use of words! I do not have a general theme but rather each piece has its own message based on what idea I want to convey. I try to title my pieces in a way that helps the viewer with interpretation. I like to attend my shows and listen to people’s reactions.
What has been your experience working with galleries and exhibit spaces?
I have shown mostly in coffee shops although I recently finished a show at Fred Segal in Los Angeles where I sold a piece. In general, my experiences have been good however, 24 hour establishments tend not to have the greatest security. I have had several pieces damaged and one stolen.
What is your favorite aspect of being an artist?
My interaction with the public is so rewarding. For many of my shows, I leave a notebook out so that people can write messages to me about the art. The notes are invaluable feedback for me.
What is your professional goal? Where would you like to see your work represented in the future?
I would like to show in a gallery and I would also like to get involved with public pieces of art. I have some fantastic ideas for large scale installations.
Do you have a favorite piece in your portfolio/studio? What is it about this piece that makes it special and how does it represent you as an artist?
One of my favorite pieces is “Sugar Glazed, Deep Fried, Cream Filled Love”. I came up with this small poem while living in Spain. The vintage sign letters worked so well with the poem! This is also one of the first pieces that sold and it inspired me to create more.
Do you have any advice to upcoming and emerging artists?
Follow your own voice and do what you do well. Work hard to have your art appreciated by many people and you audience will find you.
Where can people learn more about your work?
My online portfolio is www.travelzealot.com.
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