How did you get into art?

Just from doodles when I was younger. I used to get a lot of grief from my teachers for wrecking my school books. I never really took it seriously until I was on college and started to look at other artists and getting a feel of what was going on in the world. And from then on it just progressed.

How do you get inspiration for the pieces you produce?

All kinds of things spark my mind. People are a good source of inspiration. The way people act and carry themselves. It’s something I’ve really tried to push in my illustrations. Getting more attitude and personality into my characters. Listing to good music is an amazing source of inspiration. Lyrics always play with my mind and evoke so much thought.

What has been your best creation to date?

I was really stoked with one of my Lapjack designs I did for Toshiba. They had some nice themes and it worked out really well. Just waiting for the final product now and then we’ll see!

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

The general publics perception is hugely shaped by media hype and this has good and bad points. I think good art is generally good art regardless of the media but some artists gain more coverage than others, pushing them into the public eye. But for artists viewing artists work that’s a different story.

Last CD you bought/downloaded/shoplifted?

Geeez, I’ve been slack on the music front for a while. Last CD was DJ Dereck’s, Sweet Memory Sounds. Go buy it! It will pave the way for your summer.

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

Didn’t really believe it and to some extent I still struggle to. It’s so hard to tell yourself someone would want to pay good money for your art because when you draw all the time it’s nothing special. It’s your own work and I find it strange someone wants it. But I understand the need for unique work and I really enjoy seeing people walk away smiling when they have bought work.

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

Well the cost in quite different in many cases, you can pick up a CD for next to nothing now but you have to dig deep sometimes to get a substantial piece of artwork. I think people often want something more tangible as well, that’s why artists clothing sells so well. You get your artwork but you wear it!! Genius really. I’m not shy on spending out on artwork though and really put out my student loan from buying canvases from some super dope artists.

How does it feel to be interviewed?

I was shocked when I saw the email…It’s super nice of you guys to consider me. Most of the interviews I have had before were local things which is great as well. It’s a really good feeling when someone wants to know more. Gives you a good kick up the arse to set the pace for the day.

Describe your ideal day?

Waking up next to my beautiful girlfriend with the sun shining. Jump into my imaginary VW camper van, pick up paint and people. Setting up a barbeque for the day, find a nearby wall, paint and be play frisbee, be happy all day long.

Sex, drugs or rock n roll?

Sex.

Last book you read?

I read this book A Million Little pieces by James Frey and it moved me. It’s about a recovering drug addict and it’s written so well. I highly recommend it.

Most treasured possession?

Can I say my girlfriend. Not sure if that’s allowed. If not then Laptop and it’s got everything on it I’m working on at them moment.

Last time you lied?

I can’t honestly answer that question.

Have you any hidden talents?

Well I went to this Irish dance/barn dance called Ceili on Friday night which was a first for me and albeit I was pretty wrecked I think I was quite good at it so I’m thinking of going again..don’t know if I’d call that a talent though.

Is there a downside to being so talented?

First off I’m super chuffed you think that so thank you. I could never see a downside you doing what I do. I draw and paint and I love it to bits. I just wish I could do it all day every day.

Ask yourself (and answer) a question?

Where do you want to be in ten years?
Still doing what I do and hopefully doing it even better. I would love to have my own company in a few years. I’d hope to still being enjoying life with the lady and be travelling a lot. We’ll see what the future brings!

What's your worst habit?

Always working. I am pretty hard on myself on the work front and I know it annoys some people. I know I irritate people always trying to do too many things and never have the time to do the things that might really matter. I think I’m getting better though, starting to take things a little slower.

Any close encounters with the law?

A few yeah, well a few close encounters and a few encounters with the plod. I was caught doing wheatpastes with a mate a few years ago and we tried out running them. Picture two of us running down this street, my mate with posters stuffed under one arm trying not to drop them and keep his trousers from falling round his ankles and me running like an idiot with a paint bucket and a broom sticking out of it, paste splashing up all over the place. Never the less we were caught and ridiculed by two extremely amused policemen.

What else do like other than art?

I like good food, good wine, gin and tonic and the sunshine. I like being around all my friends and can’t wait for the festival season to start. We are at the Big Chill this year with The Masseye Collective. There’s a lot to be said for sitting in a field drinking cider with your chums.

Any regrets?

Not making my packed lunch this morning, and not eating breakfast.

Final thoughts?

Yeah, thanks for the interview. And thanks to everyone who is helping me out. Lots of loving to my girlfriend. Huge respect o Terry Guy the man at Monorex who is making things happen and shouts to all my slices in Cardiff.

Much love and stay well all.

Interview - Mr. Burrows 08/05/07