All photos courtesy of Jesse Perry
1. Who are you and what do you do?
Jesse Perry: I am an artist, a comedian, a chef and an advocate of Downtown Phoenix. I am a native of Arizona and have lived in Phoenix for most of my 29 years. I have lived in the heart of downtown, in the Historic District for the last decade and have been enthralled with the ever changing face that makes up the Phoenix area. I consider myself to be a pro-active member of the community who is physically and emotionally vested in the progression of one of America’s fastest growing cities.
2. How did you get your start?
I started painting with my mother when I was three years old. She had an art table in the living room and like all young children, I wanted to do what my mom was doing. So… she set me up an area and let me get crackin. From there I studied art through school and in to college before putting it in the fore front of my focus. For the last four years I have honed my skills as a curator, fine artist and public artist with no restrictions on style, medium or size.
Farm Fresh, 2014, acrylic on concrete wall, 9′ x 13′
3. What inspires you?
I am continuously affected by my personal history and all the experiences that have led me to my currant state of being, but I am most inspired by my fellow artists in Downtown Phoenix. I can’t help but bask in the rays of creativity that are cast from every direction and every face of the community. I love waking up to a fresh wall in the city and knowing the person who put it up. I love watching the culture of a city develop before my eyes and having first hand knowledge of how it came to be that way.
4. What do you like about AZ?
I love the people of Arizona because Arizona breeds people with character. I mean, where else in the world are you going to find a group of people who eat cactus, survive 300 days of sunshine and are still willing to paint outside during 120 degree days?!
Giant Teddy Bear vs Alien Octo-brain from Outerspace 2014, acrylic on wall, 12′ x 13′
5. Where can we see you(r) work?
My work can be seen all over Downtown Phoenix and the surrounding area. My first and most notable piece is located on the east facing wall at 3rd St and Roosevelt which depicts a Cthulhu Sushi Chef. My work is also featured at businesses such as FilmBar and the Phoenix Public Market Cafe. For more information on where you can scope my work, please visit my website at jesseperryart.com. Be sure to check out my film debut in the 2012 Full Moon Production of Zombies vs Strippers, which I believe is still available on Netflix…
6. What would you like to accomplish before you die?
The only thing I have ever pursued in this life is happiness…. which is the focus of my accomplishments. As long as I can accomplish being happy in this life, I will accept death with open arms.
7. What is your mantra?
My mantra is, “Perry Timing” which is a concept that has taken years to develop, but now that it has I find it in every aspect of my life. The idea is that I am always where I need to be, when I need to be there and that everything happens for a reason. This mantra makes it easier for me to accept the daily delays of life and the isms that have tendencies to frustrate as well as being able to accept the good experiences that come my way.
The Carrot Sutra, 2014, acrylic on canvas, 3′ x 4′
Why So Hilarious Bill Murray, 2014, acrylic on canvas, 16” x 20”
