All photos courtesy of Such Styles.
Who are you and what do you do?
Greetings! I’m Such Styles and I am a practitioner in the art of Aerosol since 1983.
How did you get your start?
My main journey began once I read Crag Castleman’s book titled “Getting Up”. The book shared the inside stories of the lives and activities of young graffitists making their mark on the New York subway system. I was already involved in art as a natural gift from above. My minor involvements in aerosol uses were mainly purposed for cultural and territorial inspirations. However once I read about this East coast movement created by youth for youth, I was strongly intrigued and began my hand at this craft with great sincerity.
What inspires you?
My current work derives its inspiration from numerous areas in my life. Seasons, life experiences, culture, messages, current interest, iconic Americana themes and comic books! ☺
What do you like about AZ?
Our incredible skies!! G-d’s art masterpieces in the great gallery above.
Where can we see you(r) work?
Various museums are holders of my work: Phoenix’s Musical Instrument Museum, The Arizona State University Art Museum and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. My current Wall Works include a strong involvement with my son “Champ Styles” which can be seen in the Town of Guadalupe. However our most recent piece can be found behind the Black N Blue Rockstar Clothing & Accessories store in the Phoenix Roosevelt Art district where we recently created an iconic comic book style piece. It received the attention of James Gunn the director of the acclaimed film “Guardians of the Galaxy” … This was a nice and unexpected surprise for us (Art for the Masses!).
What would you like to accomplish before you die?
What I would like to accomplish artistically is to teach this craft at a University. I believe that to study art as a profession that this art form will be a prerequisite to obtaining an art degree. The market has developed a huge demand for this art style and a degree in such a craft would deem beneficial.
What is your mantra?
“Love & Light!” …. Because the world has enough hate & darkness. … “Light up the Darkness!”
Such Styles: I was only involved in the background on this piece … Champ executed the character of Howard The Duck. So I can not take credit for the character work.
Love your work I’ve I followed your work since late eighties . It’s just so amazing how you can do that type of are with a aerosol can. Now I have the privilege of following your sons work as well. Keep up the great and amazing work the both of you do, and thank you for sharing your story and art.
Gratitude Richard Ortiz! Love to ya my brother from the fam!!