Van Saro Returns With His Red Rum Series Forgive Me For I Have Sinned + Original Artwork

1xRun Thru Interview
Forgive Me by Van Saro

1xRun: Tell us a little bit about this piece, is the original still for sale?
Van Saro:  This painting deals with the duality that resides within all men. That schizophrenic desire to both love and hate, build and destroy, kill and repent etc etc… What the f&ck is wrong with us?!

1xRun: Was this piece part of a recent  theme, series or show that you had? If so how did it fit into that given grouping?
Van Saro: Yes, this was part of my RedRum series that was shown at my “What A Wonderful World” show at La Luz de Jesus gallery this October. My paintings in this show all had similar themes and color compositions, and was centered around the darker side of humanity.

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1xRUN: When was this piece created and with what materials?
Van Saro: This piece was created over the course of about 2-3 weeks in 2013 using oil paint on wood.

1xRun: What is unique about this piece?     
Van Saro: I think that it relates to all of us, it’s a piece of what it means to be human.

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1xRun: Why should people buy this print?    
Van Saro: Buy it if it moves you.

1xRun: Describe this print in one gut reaction word.     
Van Saro: Humanity.

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1xRun: We got a chance to speak briefly earlier this year when we visited Los Angeles, can you talk about your life growing up Los Angeles and how you have seen things change over the years?
Van Saro: That is something that is to hard to sum up.

1xRun: Like your other previous prints with us, this piece strikes a chord somewhere between religion and violence, how do you see the two intertwined and related personally?
Van Saro: I think that religion and violence should be opposed to one another, yet it seems like throughout time and across the world, people have used religion as a reason for violence. That shit drives me crazy. For instance, in our society, many individuals who act “religious” are also the supporters of wars that kill millions.  WTF!?

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1xRun: Several pieces in this series feature this gas mask iconography, do you want to elaborate on the importance of this theme and it’s prevalence lately in your work?
Van Saro: The mask has 2 meanings. One is that is creates an ominous character. Two (and most importantly) it creates anonymity.The viewer can decide who is behind the mask, that way it becomes more unique and personal to each individual.

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1xRun: Have there been any artists that have been particularly inspiring you as of late?
Van Saro: Mark Garro is awesome. But my biggest inspiration is the world and the experiences I’ve gone through.

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1xRun: Any new music that has been driving you lately?
Van Saro:  Lately it has been Vinnie Paz, Lowkey, Joe Budden and Immortal Technique. Any song that is dark and deep inspires me

1xRun: What have you been up to since our last release?    
Van Saro: I’ve been learning how to tattoo. I’ve painted non stop for close to 2 years, so I needed a break. Since I cant sit still I decided to get into something that I always wanted to learn.

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1xRun: Any big shows or events in the next 2-3 months that you’d like to talk about?
Van Saro:  No shows, I have a list of clients that I have to start doing artwork for I will have my next big show in about a year. Also I am going to take some time to do some graffiti videos.

Where else can people find you?
Van Saro: WebsiteFacebook

-1xRUN