Street artist Sellout [INTERVIEW]

Street art is an interesting medium. Is it art? Is it vandalism? Or is it a part of our culture that should be further explored and appreciated. The question is not as simple as it may seem and it is one I posed to street artist Sellout during our interview. He shared with me a bit about the behind the scenes of how a street artist may or may not accomplish their work, scaling tall buildings in a single bound. I enjoyed his sense of humor and candidness. Whether street art is your cup of tea or not, Sellout’s work is to be appreciated. There is a story behind every piece and his signature “Lady Liberty” is one that I expect we’ll be seeing more of. 

Commercially nuanced with social commentary, Los Angeles street artist Sellout touches on modern subjects with references to the 90’s in much of his art. Sellout uses many layers and various techniques to embody the textures of the streets, where much of his work was born. Sellout is known to have street art in many of LA’s most influential areas, having been seen on Netflix’s “L.A. Originals” and E! Channel’s “Keeping Up With the Kardashians.” His work embodies subtle messages of care-free motifs stemming back to the decades of graffiti which has directly imposed itself into his production and technique.

What inspired you to be a street artist?

I have always been someone that likes the urban environment. I grew up playing pick-up games and skateboarding through the city. So I am majorly inspired by the streets and find myself at my most creative there.

Where did the name “Sellout” come from?

What’s your secret to scaling tall buildings at night?

What’s the difference between street art and vandalism?

How do you select the buildings you paint at night?

Are there consequences in painting a random building?

Is there a specific artist, person or place that influences your work?

I was born in the ’80s and lived through the 90s, so I saw rap really grow in popularity. All the kids I grew up with listened to hip hop. It was a big part of my life. It’s not the only music I listen to, but I do find myself inspired by the hip-hop culture. It’s all-encompassing. Setting trends in fashion, art, and music all the while impacting the community and the people who raised you. I want my art and who I am to be synonymous with that type of impact.

Do you have a favorite piece that you have created? 

I have studio work that I occasionally find myself liking but for the most part my favorite pieces are out on the street. The thrill of climbing up to a potential spot with your gear and leaving behind your artistic mark for the world to take in is by far a greater feeling than anything I’ve done in the studio.

What is the story behind your signature “Lady Liberty” piece?

About 7 years ago, I was working as a bartender in downtown LA, and everyone I worked with at the time was an aspiring actor from somewhere outside of LA. Each and everyone one of them was the driving force behind my signature piece, which is Lady Liberty holding a “Westside” foam finger rooting for LA. She’s come from New York with stars in her eyes, hoping LA will change her life, like so many before her.

If you could travel anywhere in the world to see a famous piece of art, theater, etc. where and what would it be and why?

I’d like to take my mom to see the Pope. The artwork surrounding much of Rome is beautiful but they also have a thriving graffiti culture. The contrast between ancient artworks and graffiti would be very cool, and giving the opportunity to my mom would say “I care” in ways I haven’t been so great at.

What words do you live by for creating?

The importance of setting daily goals, achieving them, and celebrating these small achievements is important. You have got to learn to celebrate yourself when no one else is.

Tell us about your work in progress.

Currently, I’m starting my first ever sculpture. Inspired by my earliest design with Lady Liberty, we are really excited about this one. It’s been a dream of mine for some time.

Were you always interested in being an artist? 

I wasn’t always thinking art and street art would be my calling. I had more interest in fashion and shoes. I went to school for graphic design and instead of getting into anything related to that, I had shitty dead-end internships that paid in “experience” ….so that went nowhere. Ended up working for the national brand cultish grocery store and at night, street art became my passion.

What is one of the most rewarding elements you take away from doing what you do?

Sharing the journey with my children. Knowing how much they love art shows and the pride they have when they tell their friends. It’s important to show them the determination it takes as well.

What is one quality you feel is key in succeeding at your craft in today’s creative landscape?

Business mindset. If you think the world is going to come to you, you’re wrong. You need to build bridges, follow through on goals, value relationships… otherwise, you have a nice hobby.

If you could meet another artist (dead or alive) who would it be? 

Ralph Steadman while Hunter S. Thompson was alive. Would love to experience the wildness that ensued during those times. The madness that was Hunter Thompson. Hahaha…Would love to see Ralph’s process then as well as the interactions they had.

What advice can you share with other artists about what you’ve learned from your journey?

Don’t compare yourself to others. Learn to take the bad as good. See failure as a lesson. Learn about culture and make sure you are adding to it and not taking from it.

For someone who is new to discovering art, what would you recommend on how to explore the possibilities of what is out there?

We all discover the art and explore possibilities differently but I think it is important to always have the public involved and moreover your community. Keep yourself educated in local art and culture and go from there…

Have you been fortunate enough to have a show?

The street art community is always throwing shows and events so yes I have but I want to point out that this is another great reason to be involved with the community… to open up opportunities like a show or otherwise.

What has been your biggest “Wow” moment in your career as an artist?

About three years ago, having my entire Art Basel trip sponsored because a certain gallery knew I’d be active in the streets and they wanted to see that, so they paid for my trip. First-time vandalism actually paid for something hahaha.

Tell us an interesting story about yourself that you have not already covered in the above questions.

I have two different colored eyes.

Thank you Sellout for sharing so much in this interview!

To purchase his artwork visit artsy.net/artist/sellout/works-for-sale