Tell us about this piece:
This painting was part of a larger series of works titled “Don’t go Behind the Clouds.” In this series, images of Southern flying squirrels and disembodied figures float in an abandoned environment filled with flat, monochromatic clouds. They exist only as moments suspended without time. The idea of apprehension as well as an innocent sense of optimism is a recurring theme in the work. I’ve been really into working on found objects as of late and was drawn to the weave pattern and color of the vintage speaker boxes. So I gutted the inner workings, and shaved down the walls before putting it back together. Because of the break in the speakers, the piece would be considered a diptych, but I think of it as one unified piece. The painting uses a mix of media from the screen printing in the line work and flat enamel paint in the clouds to acrylic rendering of the squirrel.
If you were to describe your work to someone who’s never seen it, what would you say?
Generally I’m not in “art speak” mode so I would quickly say it’s very graphic, line oriented, with a mix between rendered and flat graphic elements.
Describe your creative process:
It’s a little subjective with different works. Generally I start with basic sketch on paper that ultimately becomes a finished work on another surface. But there are also times when the materials used influences the images. For example, a very coarse or aged wood that is used to paint on could elicit images of a more organic or rustic nature. Sometimes I just find random objects that bring images to mind.
Could you share one of your latest sketches?
Most of my recent work lately has been more freelance than personal work. I recently got a group of aspiring t-shirt enthusiasts to work on a shirt project. Here is an example of a recent logo/graphic that I came up with. It is meant to be a personal reaction to those little moments in life that just seem perfect.
What’s the art scene like where you live?
The art scene is great here in San Francisco but I don’t go out to many galleries. I mostly just poke my head in from time to time and check out the occasional friends’ art shows.
What art is hanging on your walls at the moment?
Mostly, I have my own works because I don’t have the desire to part with them. I also have works from fellow artist friends that I admire which I have acquired through trade or as gifts.
What are you really into right now?
I’ve been really into collaborating with others on their work not so much my own. I like to lend a hand when I can. It keeps me busy.
If your art was music, what would it sound like?
Definitely not something you would hear on your radio. It would be a bit somber with low-fi sounds mixed in with quietly intense lyrics.
What do you have as your desktop wallpaper?
Some generic wavy graphic I found online that has just the right amount of color with a good dose of utter blackness to make my monitor screen pop. I also like to change it from time to time to micro zoomed photographs that I occasionally take.
What websites do you check out regularly?
I check out Ffffound and Booooooom for my daily dose of art/design inspiration.
What are your vices/guilty pleasures?
I like to keep my apartment clean and can’t refuse a Q-Tip when I see one. My ears are immaculate.
What’s the first picture you can remember drawing as a child?
I drew a lot of comic characters with my older brother growing up, but it might have been a boot-leg version of E.T.
What was your last memorable dream?
I have too many. But the best are when I can control the speed in which I hover or fly. It sucks when I move at escalator speed.
If you had to change careers, what would be next?
Full-time student for life; all paid for, of course.
Alphonzo Solorzano
