Humdrum Artist Series: Holden Fuller

‘Humdrum’ is a series of profiles on twelve of Los Angeles’ finest up and coming multimedia artists, reflecting the roster of the group art show of the same name opening at des pair books in Echo Park on September 16th.

I don’t know if it needs to be said, but I’ll say it anyway: you should be at that opening. Not only because the art is good and worth finding parking, but because print is important, physical space for a community to grow and thrive is important, and supporting artists is important, and by attending, you knock out all three. Why else? Because Holden Fuller’s work is showing work and we fuck with it pretty heavy. Much of it is an abstraction of graffiti culture, fine art textures, and urbanity that we think feels somewhere between a gallery and an abandoned building in Downtown LA. It’s a collection of multimedia work that hits the spot and gets at something more beautiful than a hurried spray but closer to home than The Met.

How did you get started as an artist & how has your practice evolved to where you are now?

I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t making art whether it was photography, clothing, skateboarding or painting. I have always done something creative since a kid. My practice has evolved to mostly painting as my main focus. My style has gone through many phases over the years to get to the paintings I’m now making.

How does your creative process usually start? Does a vision or motive come first or do you find the meaning/end point as you work?

I just start working. I don't ever have a preconceived idea for a painting. I am constantly thinking about painting, I have to paint to keep my sanity. I find the act of painting itself is like meditation.

Have there been any significant feelings, experiences, or themes that have influenced your work?

My work takes heavy influence from graffiti, skateboarding, counter culture and the city of LA.

Los Angeles is a particularly intense and often uncomfortable place to be operating in. Do you feel like this pressure of perception and competition has affected your work or identity as an artist?

I am born and raised in Los Angeles so I feel right at home here. I love the chaotic energy of the city. It keeps me on my toes.

What do you feel is lacking in the modern art scene and why?

I think the art scene needs to focus more on community. There are so many great young artists in the city that are building a scene for the next generation. LA definitely seems to be having a newfound moment forming.

What role does technology play in your practice and how might that change over time?

I don’t use much technology in my work. I could see technology playing a role in my practice in the future, who knows what it will bring to art in the next ten years.

Do you believe your work belongs to you or the viewer?

I tend to believe once you make a work of art it belongs to the world. Why make art if you’re not going to show it to anyone. The artist is incomplete without the viewer.

At what point do you believe a piece of work is ‘finished’?

Knowing when a work is finished is the key to being a great artist. Many artists overwork and overthink their work. It’s a subtle moment that is hard to describe but when you know you know. Always follow your gut.