Our third artist in our Skiptown mural series is SWYCH. SWYCH is a painter with a focus on street art, murals, and graphic design. SWYCH previously worked with Sharon Dowell on our second mural. His other murals can be found around Charlotte at Condado Tacos, Northwood Office Gardens, Moo & Brew, What The Fries, & Lower Tuck.
How did you get into painting murals?
I was painting canvases here and there and wanted to develop my style more and paint on bigger surfaces. Having some ability to paint with spray paint made the learning process a little easier. I began painting on small walls and when people started seeing them around and by word of mouth I started painting more murals.
How did you learn to paint?
I started doodling at a young age and then started drawing more and more throughout my school years. I took a few drawing classes in college for graphic design. I actually learned how to use spray paint back in college in some tunnels on campus. I never took drawing and painting really seriously till I was out of college. After that, I would paint with friends and learn as much as I could from them and other artists that inspired me.
What was the process like to become an established muralist?
It’s not easy getting into the realm of painting murals. Constant drawing, creating, learning, and not being afraid to hear the word NO.
How would you describe your style?
My style, I would say, is bold, colorful, and quirky derived from letters and characters in an illustrative fun style.
What's the hardest part of painting for you?
I would say the hardest part would be managing my expectations of myself. Staying in a creative mindset isn’t always easy. Sometimes telling myself it’s ok to take a short break. We are all our worst enemies.
What has surprised you the most about painting murals?
I would say the biggest thing that surprised me is surprising myself with the growth of my style and being humbled by the support from the community. It’s pretty cool how many businesses want murals and allow us to show our creativity.
What brings you joy (art or otherwise)?
Painting, of course! But also, music, movies, and traveling.
What's something people don't know about artists/the art community in CLT?
There are so many talented artists out there that don’t get the chance or recognition. The art community here is thriving but sometimes it’s hard to get recognized. With the growing support, we can all add more color to the city.
What's something people don't know about You?
I’m a twin. I’ve also had four surgeries in four years starting back in 2012 and one of them was a brain surgery.
What piece are you most proud of?
I would say a piece I did in St. Louis for an event called Paint Louis. There, I painted a realistic character for the first time!
If you could describe yourself in three words, what would they be?
Humbled, Funny, Quirky
What do you want people to take away from your work?
I want people to say “Wow” and to put a smile on people’s faces with my work.
How can we support artists in Charlotte?
The biggest thing is to give artists recognition by tagging them in photos that have their work in the photo.
What motto guides your life right now?
Never stop creating
