While Andy Warhol lived a very glamorous lifestyle, the times have changed these days for many artists who have been on the rise making their mark in a very creative industry…. they need to do it their own way! Tysen Knight is one such artist who went from being homeless to now selling out galleries around the world, and here in California, with his ‘Pop Urban‘ branded masterpieces.
From red carpets, to charity work, to eye-catching artwork, Tysen sat down with It’s A Glam Thing to let us into his day-to-day life:
NICK NORTHSTAR: How would you describe your own personal art style?
TYSEN KNIGHT: I would describe my style as ‘Pop Urban Art’ mixing Fine, Street and Pop Art into remixed masterpieces creating artwork that fresh and also paying homage to the original works by the master. I use bright colors in all my works in studio and at live art events, colors attracted eyes and curiosity.
NN: What are some of your favorite products to use while creating your artwork?
TK: Paint markers and spray paint are my main products I use when I’m creating artwork, but I have recently added paint brushes to my creative process. I mostly work with acrylic and oil paints.
NN: Who have been some of your role models in your career?
TK: My peers are my role models without even realizing it. I get inspired by other artist and their creative process, as far my muses Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring, they inspire me because of their impact and the blue print they left for the art world.
NN: How did moving from New York to California (where you currently live) change your own life?
TK: Being able to live on both coasts has been a tremendous blessing for me as an artist. The cultural differences can be seen in my artwork, blending my childhood experience from the east and my adult experiences from the west is perfect marriage of color, influence and art culture.
NN: You mentor kids that want to create art, and have been seen giving your time to various local charities like Habitat For Humanity. Why is giving back so important to you?
TK: To whom much is given much is required, being blessed with talented gifts are to be shared to uplift and inspire people. I didn’t fall in love with my art until I figured out that giving back was the main purpose. Foot prints of humanity leaves a path for the next generation to follow.
NN: A lot of Hollywood stars have come out to support your art. How does that feel?
TK: It is an amazing feeling to be acknowledged for your creativity. To have celebrities come out and support my artwork is overwhelming and humbling at the same time. Feelings of gratitude comes to mind when your hard work pays off.
NN: What trends in the art world are you loving right now?
TK: I’m loving all the different genres of art popping up all over the place. Art has taking on new forms of media 3D printing, Virtual etc… Art can be applied to anything right now! What amazing time to be an artist.
NN: What is your advice to anyone wanting to take on art as a full-time career?
TK: Have a definite purpose for your passion and understand why you are pursing your dreams. This understanding will give you the fortitude and drive to keep pushing forward with your faith. Surround yourself with like minded individuals this will keep your inspiration and creativity balanced. More importantly #BeInspired
NN: What is your definition of “Glam”? And is the life of an artist “Glamorous”?!
TK: Vintage style, simple and classy with a touch of modern flare is my definition of Glam. The life of an artist is interpreted by their style of creativity. I would say my style has a splash of the “Glamorous Life”.
NN: Which piece of art of yours would you say defines “Glam”?
TK: My ICON SERIES defines Glam; Marilyn Monroe and Billie Holiday doesn’t get more Glamorous than that.
NN: What new pieces are you currently working on?
TK: I’m still working on my ICON SERIES right now, more legends will be added to complete the series!
For more details on Tysen and to see more of his art, go to: www.tysenknight.com
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