Interview: Marisabel Bazan at haleARTS S P A C E
Panamanian-born Marisbel Bazan‘s energetic paintings are part of haleARTS S P A C E’s latest group show in Santa Monica, opening March 21 with an artist reception from 5pm to 8pm. Bazan is showing with surfer/artist Michael Torquato de Nicola (and Cartwheel Art favorite) and filmmaker/artist Eric Oliver. Bazan herself is an singer-singwriter along with being a cross over graffiti/gallery artist. She gave us a quick email interview in advance of the haleARTS S P A C E opening:
What is your art background?
My mother is an amazing artist, she didn’t pursue it professionally, but I’ve always been surrounded by art, music, dance and fashion so I developed each medium as I was growing up and took it very seriously, I always loved it.
What are your influences in art?
I’m influenced by Jackson Pollock, Jeff Cahill, Basquiat, Andy Warhol, Beto Cuevas, Bansky, Mr. Brainwash, Murakami… I loooove Murakami!
When, where and why did you start doing graffiti?
Art started a couple of years ago when a friend artist who passed away, Jeff Cahill invited me to paint in his L.A.Studio, from that moment on I’ve never stopped. I loooved graffiti, the rush, the moment, I was mesmerized about thinking of doing something and going out there and just doing it in an instant and that was art… I love that I could communicate a message in just a moment and reach someones soul, it’s something that someone will hold forever… How could I not do it?
Where have you shown here and abroad?
In Los Angeles I’ve shown at The Santa Monica Barker Hanger, Sirens Studios, Swing House Studios, Music Cares. I’ve shown also in Miami, and overseas I’ve been in London, Japan, Panama, Berlin.
You are also a musician–have you played live in LA yet? If so how does LA different from the other cities where you’ve gigged?
Yes I have played in Los Angeles, I love the crowd that gathers for each show, each one has its uniqueness… Los Angeles is special, it is my home and I LOVE the people and the City! They love it when you sing in Spanish! And they sing along.
Expect the art world to be singing her praises, too.
Opening reception
March 21, 2014 5pm to 8pm
haleARTS S P A C E
2443 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Bazan at T.J. Martel Art for the Cure with one of her expressionist butterflies.
