1xRun Thru Interview
Awake by Ekundayo
1xRun: Tell us a little bit about this piece, is the original still for sale?
Ekundayo: This piece is part of a style that I’ve been developing since I stumbled upon working this way after searching for a new way to use colors and movement in my work. The print is very big, 24 x 24 so it captures lots of the details in the original very nicely.
1xRUN: When was this piece created and with what materials?
Ekundayo: This one was completed in mid November of 2013 using a mix of acrylic and spray paint on wood panel.
1xRun: Tell us how the idea and execution came about?
Ekundayo: It was really an organic process as I continue to grow and develop with my work I’ve learned how to stand out of my way and let the work just flow. I’ve always had a desire to use colors in a unique way that’s really at the heart of my work I truly enjoy manipulating colors in interesting ways.
1xRun: How long did the piece take?
Ekundayo: 30 Years and a few months.
1xRun: What is unique about this piece?
Ekundayo: It’s a totally free style, I don’t hold my self to any expectations I just take all of what I know and put it down on the piece in a natural way as a reflection of my experiences, passions, hopes and the unknown.
1xRun: Why should people buy this print?
Ekundayo: I’m here to spread a message of positivity though my art to show people that anyone can create something amazing if they have the desire to do so.
The support I receive from the sale of my work allows me to create grander works to share with other parts of the world.
1xRun: Describe this piece in one gut reaction word.
Ekundayo: Awake.
1xRun: You’ve participated in Pow Wow a few times now correct? What has your experience been so far?
Ekundayo: A unique one. Hawaii is such a healing place there’s a strong connection between people and the land, artists feel that energy and as a result the creations are like no other paint jam. I’m very thankful Hawaii has something like this for the community to see this new art movement that is happening right now live and in person.
1xRun: Who are you most looking forward to seeing paint at this year’s event? Anybody you’d personally like to collaborate with if the opportunity presented itself?
Ekundayo: As far as who I would like to see paint it’s the whole line up I love to watch artist paint live and everyone involved is remarkably talented. Personally I will be collaborating with the legendary KATCH, he is one of those artist I’ve had an incredible respect for since the beginning it is truly an honor.
1xRun: As a local Hawaiian artist, what would you like for visiting artists to take away from their time in Hawaii?
Ekundayo: I would like everyone to have a great time be inspired and create more work.
1xRun: Who are some of your favorite Hawaiian artists for the uninitiated?
Ekundayo: Herb Kane and Solomon Enos. Both are so true and real, I have great respect for what they have done.
1xRun: Do you have any plans for your wall out there or are you just going to improvise it when you get there?
Ekundayo: Gonna let it flow.
1xRun: You’ve been staying super busy, bring us up to speed on how 2013 wrapped up for you?
Ekundayo: I was part of a small three man show at Think space gallery in July entitled “Reflections Of A New Generation.” I knocked out a wall in New Jersey with my people over at Savage Habbit. Then I did some live painting at the New York City Comic Con in October. This past January I got to paint live at Art Slam SA 8th annual art event with Ernest Doty, Skinner and Aaron “Woes” Martin.
1xRun: Aside from Pow Wow 2014, what are your plans for the new year?
Ekundayo: I’m excited to develop more and take my art to a variety of different platforms.
1xRUN: Where else can people find you?
Ekundayo: Website – Facebook – Tumblr – Instagram @ekundayo_paints
-1xRUN