Tell us about this piece.
I’ve always loved drawing animals so I wanted to make a print in which the characters fitted together, similar to the work of M.C. Escher. Jungle Book popped up in my mind because of the many characters in the story. Because of this, it seemed very suitable for this piece.
If you were to describe your work to someone who’s never seen it, what would you say?
My work is mostly inspired by the TV-cartoons from the eighties, illustrations from the sixties and NBA team logo’s. With all of this tossed into the pot, it cooks up to many cartoon-esque, animal-like characters that have a funky human flavor.
What’s your creative process?
It all starts with an idea which I try to translate into a raw sketch in my sketchbook. From that sketch, I realize the piece of art and give it the shape and form most suitable.
Could you share an image of one of your latest sketches?
I’ve got books filled with sketches and am adding more every day. Here’s an example:
Would you share some things in your workspace that inspire you?
In my workspace I have an extensive collection of toys. Whenever I need an idea or some creative input I can always get excited by the different shapes and forms in my collection. I also surround myself with artwork from friends and artists around me. They all have different creative views which can give me a creative boost. I can also get really inspired by old books for children. The illustrations in those books have a huge influence on my work.
What’s the best compliment/most extreme reaction you’ve ever received in response to your work?
When I was a young artist trying to get people to notice my work, there was this guy, who seemed to dig my work so much that he had pictures of all my pieces (both my street pieces and my artistic work) hung throughout his room. His walls were filled with my work. That was kind of overwhelming at the time.
What’s the art scene like where you live?
In Holland, there are so many talented people in the art scene. There are so many designers and illustrators, but sometimes Holland seems too small. To really be successful and to be seen by many people, you’d have to go abroad.
What art is hanging on your walls at the moment?
I have some nice pieces on my walls these days because I started collecting quite a while ago. Right now I have some great pieces by “Super-A”: www.super-a.nl, another Dutch artist, and some work from “Bruce Tsai”:www.brucetmc.com, Rutger Termohlen and Peter Winkel. They are all up-and-coming Dutch artists, check them out!
What are you really into right now?
I’m really into collecting old vinyl record both for the great artwork on the covers and for the legendary music (like old soul and funk records).
What would be on your quintessential mixtape?
If I had to fill a mixtape, it would certainly contain the Jackson 5, Al Green, Otis Redding, Marvin Gay, The Isley Brothers, MF DOOM, Madlib and J Dilla. I could go on and on with artists like these. I can never get enough!
If your art was music, what would it sound like?
Raw, funky sound with a colorful edge..
What do you have as your desktop wallpaper?
A picture of my four-year-old daughter, Noa.
What websites do you check out regularly?
www.fontanel.nl, (the Dutch design site).
www.grainedit.com.
www.cartoonbrew.com.
What are your vices/guilty pleasures?
I secretly dance like Michael Jackson in my living room…
What’s the first picture you can remember drawing as a child?
I remember drawing Mickey Mouse a lot. I used to draw him for my classmates, who would ask me to draw him in different poses. This must have been in primary school.
If you were a dinosaur, what kind would you be?
I think I’d be a Triceratops: a dinosaur who looked really tough and well-armed, but ate only plants. The hard body armor and good self-defense suits me, but also gives me space for my softer side.
If you had to change careers, what would be next?
I was talking to my girl about that just a couple of days ago. I love to cook, and would probably be a chef if I wasn’t working as an artist.
Are there any upcoming shows or projects you’d like to share?
My friend, Super-A I are putting on an exhibition at The Hague from February to March in 2010 (www.ship-of-fools.nl). It’s going to be off the hook!
What’s your motto?
You gotta live the dream.
