Apparan is a talented street artist, educator, and curator. Her work deals with social related issues such as the environment and gender equality. Check out the interview below to learn more about Apparan’s style, passion for art, and what keeps her inspired.
Where are you from and where do you currently reside?
I am originally from the Canary Islands in Spain and I have been living in London for 16 years now.
What drew you to become an artist and what do you like about using spray paint?
I have been an art enthusiast for as long as I can remember. My first memories are of me drawing members of my family during their visits. So I could say that portraits are my biggest passion. My dad also worked for an international architect and artists whose passion for environmental art was a big inspiration for people from my island and, of course, for me.
How would you describe your style?
My murals and paintings usually depict women with colorful long curly hair and strong features. I incorporate surreal elements and positive messages with bold line work, shading, and bursts of color within my creations. The majority of my work deals with social-related issues such as the environment and gender equality.
What has kept you engaged and committed to your craft over the years?
My passion and love for art has kept me going all through the years. It is difficult sometimes as life and other commitments get in the middle. But I know art is always there for me and for us artists. It will never leave us and we will always be back to it with renewed energy.
How have you grown as an artist in the past five years and what are the major contributing factors to your growth?
The more I put into my art, the more I feel I grow. Covid gave all of us a break from our lives and it was then when I got determined to experiment and practice more. I am very social. I have been meeting new artists and art fans as well as new clients too. I am hard-working and I take on new challenges with excitement. All of that has contributed positively to this growth.
What materials do you most commonly use?
I use spray paint in my murals and oil paint, markers, and acrylics in my paintings. I also love watercolors and gauge as they provide a certain feeling of immediateness and freedom.
Can you describe some of your favorite pieces you’ve worked on?
One of my favorite commissions I have worked on was a hoarding 7×4 meters high near Waterloo Station. It was early on in my career and the tallest wall I ever painted. It was winter and freezing cold to the point that spray paint froze too. I will always remember the magical views of London from the scaffolding of the snow falling down.
Very recently I got commissioned to work at the Colors Festival in London which was pretty special too. I got to paint a mural for their UV installation. Working with so many amazing street artists and with their super professional team was amazing.
Do you have any advice for up-and-coming artists? Are there any tips or techniques you can offer?
My advice for up-and-coming artists would be to follow their passion, do not give up, and do it their way. What works for some artists might not work for others. There is not an exact science in this trade and the market moves really fast. Follow your instincts, be professional, and keep all vias of communication open.
What are your website and social media links?
