Interview with Stikki Peaches
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Stikki Peaches is a street artist based in Montreal whose tagline, What if Art Ruled the World?, has been taking over the urban landscapes of Paris, London, Berlin and Stockholm since 2009. The anonymous street artist is strongly influenced by pop culture references, lowbrow, and street culture; created using a variety of media, including collage, acrylic paint and silkscreen, each piece encourages passersby to stop, analyze, and question, and is sure to leave them with a smile. Stikki Peaches has exhibited in New York and Montreal, most recently participating in MURAL Festival, the Armory Week, and the Permanence exhibition at Space 27.
Hi Stikki, today MoW selected 7 of your artworks inspired by music. Can you tell MoW what was the music behind the artworks ? What inspired you to create them ?
There isn't any specific music selection or track when creating my work. Music in general has always inspired me.
Why is music important to you and your art?
It’s like an escape. The music comes on, the creative juices start flowing and before you know it, you've created magic, all because of those good vibes running through your veins :)
If you had to choose between the artworks presented today, which of your artwork would be your favorite ? And why ?
I think I'd have to go with some of the newer music inspired pieces from the Fat Head series. The Dylan, Cash or Presley take me back to being a kid where my dad had them playing in the background often. Kind of nostalgic…
Can you tell MoW more about the techniques you used. How old is your technique? How did it start? How long does it take you to make an artwork ?
My techniques vary today from when I first started. Lots of times it’s experimenting with certain ideas and materials to get a certain result, and sometimes it can happen by pure chance and you run with it… depending on my mood. An artwork can take a few hours, or a few days, sometimes weeks. They keep transforming and evolving until I'm satisfied. Sometimes that can take a while too.
Do you have plans on creating new artworks inspired by music ?
Always
Do you listen to music when you’re working ? If so, what kind of music ?
Absolutely. I couldn't imagine working with no music either in the background or plugged in my ear. It helps me get lost in my work, no other distractions. Music is one of my working tools. I’m always listening to different types and styles.
What is the song you liked the most lately? The album ? What was the last gig you went to ?
I've been listening to The Bad Plus lately. I'll let you experience that for yourself. Thank me later. Last gig was Jay-Z's Holy Grail concert in Montreal.
Are you a musician yourself ?
I'm not. Although I'd like to think I can play the drums somewhat. But then again, a lot of people think they can play the drums! The air drums that is. ;)
Find out more about Stikki Peaches here :
www.facebook.com/StikkiPeaches
