AMM Breakout Spotlight: Skyler Grey
As the youngest artist ever to be internationally exhibited, 16 year-old Los Angeles-based Skyler Grey is a rising star and one of the newest fixtures on the LA street art scene. After the tragic loss of his mother at age 2 and subsequent placement in therapy that involved art and drawing, Grey’s father noticed his son’s incredible artistic interest, talent and creativity. Over the years, with his father’s encouragement and continuous practice on various mediums, Grey has already transformed his talent into an extraordinary career.
Although not formally trained, Skyler has educated himself by exposure to the arts and constant sharpening of his artistic skills. Influenced by artists like Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring, Grey has developed his own distinctive style and artistic concept. In addition to achieving early success as an artist, Grey has made strides in his community as well, being honored by McDonald’s in 2014 at the 11th Annual 365 Black Awards which honors African Americans who have made positive contributions in the community.
I asked his father Holman, who is also his manager, what inspired him, while standing in front of one of Skyler’s paintings which incorporated “Fat Albert.” Holman smiled”,”We didn’t have cable, so Skyler watched DVD’s of Fat Albert over and over.”
Michael Reiss: I’m here with Skyler Grey at his Los Angeles exhibit. Congratulations on such a vibrant show. I see all sorts of people enjoying your work, including many celebrities.
Skyler Grey: Thank you.
MR: I have one question Skyler.
SG: Sure.
MR: What is art to you?
SG: Art isn’t just the paint I put on the canvas. Art is the clothes that you wear. Art is the Billboards that you see. It’s such a universal thing, it isn’t just one thing. From music to dance to everything you see. Art isn’t just one form. Your thoughts are art. Art isn’t one color – what is red, blue, green, white, black? Everything. Everything is art.
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