I first came upon WC Bevan‘s mesmerizing aesthetic at an exhibit — curated by Jason Mamarella aka d.w. krsna — that I attended back in 2013 at 17 Frost. I was delighted to rediscover it on the streets of Detroit during my recent trip, where I, also, had a chance to visit the artist’s studio and speak to him.
When and where did you first get up in a public space?
I was about 15 or 16 and living in Ohio. I had gotten my driver’s license, and in between delivering pizzas, I’d find walls under train bridges.
What ignited your interest back then in graffiti?
A punk named Gabe Razor gave me his half-filled black book. He wrote, but never disclosed who he was.
Had you any favorite surfaces to hit up back then?
Besides the walls under the train bridges, I liked abandoned spaces – of any kind — and the quarries.
These days — when you are out on the streets — would you rather work legally or illegally?
Both.
Were you ever arrested?
Once in Memphis. I just had to repaint the wall and pose for a photo.
What’s the riskiest thing you’ve ever done while painting in the streets?
In Memphis, I painted a big, googly eyeball 26 stories above the ground while hanging off a bar.
Why did you?
It was fun! Why not?
Would you rather paint alone or collaborate with others?
I like collaborating with rich people who commission me to paint their walls!
Have you any thoughts about the graffiti/street art divide?
I don’t feel it much here in Detroit. We’ve all been through so much together.
What percentage of your time is devoted to art these days?
About 90%.
How does your family feel about what you are doing
They love it. They’re cool! My father is a folk musician.
What are some of your other interests?
I record music as a hobby, and I bike.
How do you feel about the engagement of the corporate world with graffiti writers and street artists?
It depends on the nature and mission of the company or corporation. It’s okay as long as the artist is aware of the company’s agenda and can work with it.
What is the main source of your income?
Working on commissioned murals and selling my work privately.
Have you shown your work in galleries?
Yes. I’ve been in lots of shows – both group exhibits and solo shows. When I was based in NYC, I showed at 17 Frost.
Do you work with a sketch in hand or do you let it flow?
A loose sketch.
Are you generally satisfied with your finished work?
Yes. And, if not, I’ll fix it. So far, I’ve only painted over one piece.
Do you have a formal art education?
I attended the Memphis College of Art for almost two years.
Was it worth it?
It wasn’t the way I wanted to do it, but I did get a lot of art supplies out of it!
Are there any particular cultures or movements that have influenced your aesthetic?
I’ve been influenced by South American art, the Renaissance and architectural designs.
How has your work evolved through the years?
With the space and time I’ve had since moving to Detroit, it has evolved quite a bit. It’s tighter and bigger.
What inspires you these days?
Pure vision and free association.
Do any particular artists inspire you?
JJ Cromer, Martin Ramirez, Louise Nevelson, Kenny Sharf, R Crumb, Motohiro Hayakawa, Minnie Evans
How do you feel about the role of the Internet and social media in all of this?
If a graffiti artist paints something and it doesn’t appear on Instagram, did it really happen? My advice to graffiti artists is: Don’t show your face or location. But the Internet does make it easier for us to sell T-shirts!
What’s ahead?
Murals in the Market, a trip to Cuba and more painting!
What do you see as the role of the artist in society?
To provide meaning, encourage reflection, and offer people the possibility of seeing things differently.
Photo credits: 1, 5 & 6 courtesy of the artist; 2-4 & 7 Lois Stavsky; interview conducted by Lois Stavsky with Tara Murray
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