Graffiti Artist Erik Gonzalez

Feel Free to Like My Style ... Just Don’t Ask Me to Define It

Erik Gonzalez is a graffiti artist and the founder of Tulare County’s Urbanists Collective art group. Before participating in a panel on how people in the Central Valley experience art today, he talked gardening, Banksy, and the game Othello in the Zócalo green room.

Q:

Where do you go to be alone?


A:

My room. My studio space.


Q:

How would you describe your style?


A:

I’m going to say undefinable, because I remember some time ago somebody commented on how they liked my style, and I was surprised by that reaction because I don’t feel like I have a style. It just comes out so naturally, you know?


Q:

What food are you most likely to binge eat?


A:

Indian food.


Q:

Where would we find you at 9:00 on a typical Friday night?


A:

At 9 p.m., I’m saying good night to my son, and then I’m heading back to the studio, getting work done. That’s when I’m getting started, 9 p.m.


Q:

What is your most prized material possession?


A:

I think my art materials. I can’t think of one thing that stands out.


Q:

Is Banksy good for graffiti artists?


A:

Yes and no. He plays an interesting role. I appreciate his work.


Q:

Where would you like to travel to next?


A:

Japan.


Q:

What’s the last board game you played?


A:

Othello, a couple weeks ago.


Q:

What do you do to clear your mind?


A:

Listen to music. Lately a lot of modern, future jazz.


Q:

What is the last habit you tried to kick?


A:

I wanted to get into gardening, but I just don’t have time.