How did you get into art?

About five years ago my brother suggested i take a look at a website called ' b3ta.com ' - i loved it immediately and wanted to join in the fun. I got hold of a copy of photoshop, taught myself how to use it, and discovered how much fun could be had (and how creative I could be) manipulating images.

How do you get inspiration for the pieces you produce?

I spend a lot of time at photolibrary sites - and the inspiration comes when i stumble across an image that is just begging to be 'creatively altered' (for the fun of it or for the 'joke' I can turn it into) or because i think 'that would be a good challenge'.

What has been your best creation to date?

That's really difficult, i have soft-spots for different images for different reasons, but, the two that were most well recieved by others were llamouse and birdidile.

How much do you think hype affects the public perception of what good art is?

I think hype has a role to play in what people think of anything and everything - you can't help but be affected by what other people say about things. In the case of art (be it music, sculpture, fine art or whatever), I believe most people can form their own judgements well enough.

Last CD you bought/downloaded/shoplifted?

Amy Winehouse 'Frank' (after having loved 'Back to Black').

How did you feel when you realised that art could make you some money?

What is this 'making money' you speak of?

Why do so many people spend money on music yet so few buy art?

I disagree with the terms of your question - surely music is art? No, it's alright, i know what you mean, and I think the answer is *the effort involved* - visual art, installation art, written art, dance etc. all require that you stop and pay attention, think about it and make an effort. Music just slides into your ears and is instantly pleasing, without you having to make any effort whatsoever (unless you want to, of course).

How is your local art scene?

I don't really have one, unless you mean my online art scene ( b3ta.com , tattyworld.net , deviantart.com ) in which case I would say - vibrant.

What makes you happy?

Two months ago I became an uncle - I almost busted with smileyness.

What makes you sad?

Getting older and not being in any imminent danger of having kids of my own.

What's it like to be interviewed?

Pretty cool, it's like showing someone inside my sock drawer.

Sex, drugs or rock n roll?

All of the above.

Last book you read?

Steven Pinker: How the mind works (it almost broke mine).

What's your favourite soup?

The green stuff that the soup dragon made in the clangers.

Tell us a secret?

If being lazy were an olympic event, I could represent England.

Is there a downside to being so talented?

I'll let you know, if I ever get talented.

Ask yourself (and answer) a question?

Tea or coffee? - coffee.

What's your worst habit?

Laziness.

Any close encounters with the law?

Nope, i'm a good boy I am.

What else do you like other than art?

Playing the guitar, chocolate, teh internets, being an uncle, sunny days that aren't too hot, big trees and clients that call me regularly.

Any regrets?

Not looking after my teeth.

Final thoughts?

When you see stuff online - always leave a comment.

Interview - Mr. Burrows 01/07/07