How did you get into art?

Started doodling as a kid, developed the style through high school, attended Electronic Design and Media course, and worked for 10 years in the gaming, film and education fields until I could support myself as a freelance in the last couple of years.

How do you get inspiration for the pieces you produce?

Life experiences.

What has been your best creation to date?

It's difficult for me to choose a “best” piece. In terms of feedback, the “best” would be my Flash animation short “Who Saved the Moon” that was a finalist at the 2007 Comic-Con International Independent Film Festival, my illustrations for the 2007 Coca-Cola campaign as this was a finalist in the Desktop Create Awards and the “Mai” vinyl toy.

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

Marketing and funding definitely play a role in the success of an artist.  

Last CD you bought/downloaded/shoplifted?

Eskimo Joe Album “Black Fingernails, Red Wine”

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

It's nice to make a living, but, my ultimate goal is to share my work with a wider audience and have a positive impact on people.  

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

Music comes cheap these days. Even music artists are not making as much money as they did in the past. I think art is more expensive (compared to music) and not as easy to come by.

How is your local art scene?

Melbourne is home so I am obviously biased when I say it's great. It is where I refined my techniques and style. There is a distinct underground art scene in Melbourne's city and its surrounding suburbs. San Francisco is where I spend most of my time these days. The local art scene is huge. I'm still enjoying the sites and trying to check it all out!

What makes you happy?

Chatting to people at artist signings.

What makes you sad?

Cruelty to animals.

What's it like to be interviewed?

It's actually quite entertaining. The questions you get asked can be really funny and some really make you think.

Sex, drugs or rock n roll?

Funny you should mention that, a couple of years ago I did a search for the meaning of SKAFFS and I came across the definition to “disown, trade or discard something of great personal value, for drugs, money and sex”. So, I guess in answer to your question “YES”.

Last book you read?

“The Seuss, the whole Seuss and nothing but the Seuss”

What's your favourite soup?

Miso soup.

Tell us a secret?

I have been told my bizarre creativity is a result of a head injury I sustained as a child. I have a massive scar on my forehead from this deep gash. Neurology researchers have linked this type of head injury to abnormal hoarding behaviour. Since this tragic event, my mind has hoarded many weird and wonderful SKAFFS characters. For people wanting to enter this industry, please do not attempt this head injury at home!

Is there a drawback to being so talented?

Talented?, why thank you!

What's your worst habit?

My worst habit is that I tend to get very focused on my work, so much so, that I forget to see daylight and occasionally forget to eat. So you could imagine just before an exhibition I am at my worst, pasty and frail.

What really irritates you?

The 12-pack of Y-fronts that my mum gives me every Christmas!

What else do you like other than art?

I like to play the guitar and piano and compose music. Being a 2nd Dan Black belt, I also like to occasionally kick the crap out of a punching bag.

Any regrets?

Nope. Everything happens for a reason.

Final thoughts?

Thanks for the interview!

Interview - Mr. Burrows 31/10/07