DEFER captures a moment where the past and the future collide. His art, described as a “spiritual language,” transcends time and space, evoking a sense of the sacred and the eternal. Drawing inspiration from his graffiti roots, DEFER’s work combines elements of typography and gestural abstract forms, resulting in a unique visual language.
In DEFER’s own words, “I basically wanted to take it beyond that, which is obliterating the letter form, and I call it ‘spiritual language.’ Which is akin to, like, I guess, babble, like speaking in tongues. … So it looks like gestural abstract.” His paintings are a reflection of his desire to go beyond the traditional rules of art and explore the realm of the subconscious.
Each of DEFER’s artworks is a unique creation, with its own fingerprint. While there are common themes and styles that tie his pieces together, every painting has its own variation. DEFER’s approach to art is fluid and unpredictable, allowing him to reach a natural flow-state in his creative process.
Legibility is not a concern for DEFER. He believes that viewers should experience his art without the burden of deciphering texts or messages. The visual language he creates speaks on a deeper level, beyond the constraints of written language. DEFER challenges the notion of legibility by reminding us that not everything needs to be easily understood.
DEFER’s artistry blurs the lines between graffiti and classical painting. He sees graffiti as the earliest form of art, drawing a parallel to the ancient cave paintings etched into rocks. While graffiti may be associated with criminality or rebellion, DEFER highlights the connection between street-level art and fine art. Artists like Basquiat have shown that graffiti can transcend its origins and become highly valued in the art world.
For aspiring artists, DEFER emphasizes the importance of passion and dedication. He advises artists to pursue their craft without expecting immediate rewards. In the art world, success may not come easily, but it is essential to persevere and keep creating. DEFER compares the journey of an artist to pushing a wheelbarrow; it can only go as far as you are willing to push it.
DEFER’s art challenges boundaries and invites viewers to explore the realm of the subconscious. Through his spiritual language, he creates a visual experience that transcends time and leaves a lasting impression. Each painting is a unique expression of his artistic journey, resonating with the viewer on a profound level.
DEFER’s work is a testament to the power of art to transcend language and communicate on a deeper, universal level. His paintings invite us to delve into the realm of the unknown and embrace the beauty of the abstract.
This article was inspired by the September 2022 issue of High Times Magazine.
FAQs
1. What is DEFER’s art style?
DEFER’s art style is characterized by a “spiritual language” that combines elements of typography and gestural abstract forms. His paintings are unique and often defy traditional rules of art, creating a visual experience that goes beyond the written word.
2. How does DEFER differentiate himself from other artists?
DEFER differentiates himself from other artists through his fluid and unpredictable approach to art. Each of his paintings is a distinct creation with its own fingerprint, showcasing his commitment to artistic variation and exploration.
3. What is DEFER’s view on legibility in his art?
DEFER believes that legibility is not necessary in his art. He challenges viewers to experience his work without the burden of deciphering texts or messages, allowing them to connect with the visual language on a deeper level.
4. How does DEFER relate graffiti to classical painting?
DEFER sees graffiti as the earliest form of art, drawing a parallel to ancient cave paintings. He highlights the connection between street-level art and fine art, showcasing the potential for graffiti to transcend its origins and become highly valued in the art world.
5. What advice does DEFER have for aspiring artists?
DEFER advises aspiring artists to pursue their craft with passion and dedication. He emphasizes the importance of creating art without expecting immediate rewards and encourages artists to persevere through challenges and setbacks.
