About this project

Hi! Thanks for taking the time to check out my project. If you watch the video, sorry in advance. I did about 100 takes, and came to realize that the only thing weirder than writing about yourself is talking about yourself on film.

The entire idea is based on the already common problem of starving artists needing materials. Artists can only really get exposure by being prolific, but being prolific means producing and producing work which requires tons of materials. Thus begins the vicious circle of cost of living vs. art materials. This effort is to help me raise funds for materials for an upcoming show in March. One of the biggest shows for the kind of work I do is Art Whino's G40, and I got an invite to the show this year for an installation. At this point you might be asking some particulars. I've got some info below:

What materials do you need? There are a few things I need. They are as follows:

1) Acrylic. One of the mediums that I've been playing with is clear glass like acrylic. I've not seen much of this type of work, so I feel as though I am pushing something new and exciting. It allows me to have multiple layers and planes to work with creating a new type of dimension to the work. With an installation, there is possibility for A LOT of acrylic pieces, and I need to be able to get it. Each piece is 1/2" thick, and will be used in various ways. See the video to get a good idea of that.

2) Paint. Most of the paint I use is Montana Gold, a low pressure acrylic based spray paint. I need more. In addition to that is traditional acrylic paint as well as house paints. 

3) Other. Basically there are other things I need along the way such as brushes, tape, glue, hanging hardware, etc. 

What makes you so special? Nothing. Everything. I have an enormous amount of passion in my work. This is what I do full time, and I have a whole family that stands behind my work. While I may or may not stand out, I am pushing my mediums. The acrylic work is unique, for sure, and I am doing my best to stand out in every way possible in all I do, particularly this show. There are a number of people who have been following my work, and believe in what I do, and it is my hope that you see the vision in my work.

Why are you starving? Being a full time artist is like owning your own business. It's feast or famine, and relying on the kindness of others. I am a husband and father, and all that I do is for the success of my home. We are a home affected by the economy. While trained in traditional arts, I worked as a graphic designer for a number of years while developing my work to where it is now. In 2009 I was laid off and a decision was made after hundreds of resumes where submitted that selling my work would be it. My wife, a former business developer with a degree in marketing and communications, has helped me build something that is very nearly sustainable by itself.

What are you going to do for the show? Much of my work is portrait driven. My plan is to play to those strengths and use typographical treatments, as well as tap into my Native roots doing often times sarcastic and humorous pieces. I have avoided doing Native work in the past, but feel that I'm getting there now. With an installation, I will do something site specific and huge. Sky's the limit.

What if you raise more than the amount you asked for? The amount that I'm raising is specifically budgeted for the G40 Art Summit I am participating in during the month of March. If the amount I'm asking for goes over that, ALL funds will go towards other shows I have slated for this coming year. I have another big group show, and at least one tentative solo show for this year. This doesn't count murals I have lined up in DC, or other shows that come down the pike for this year. So, all in all? The money will still be going towards materials.

Also, the incentives that are set and in play until the project is completed.

Will your work be for sale? Of course!

Thanks again. If you have any questions, you can contact me! 

Big shout to T.Shirt who wrote and performed ART BULLY, produced by ILLTAL, off his Album I Should Just Chill. T.Shirt is a seriously talented artist, and is a mainstay on my playlist. T.Shirt was kind enough to let me use his music, so a heartfelt thanks to him!