On Art, Spirituality, and the Human Experience: A Conversation With Mr. StarCity
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For David "Mr. StarCity" White, the catchphrase "Big Bless" is as much a prayer as it is a call to arms. When I think of the guy, I think of an artist who continues to reconfigure stigma, oppression, and taboos in his art practice.
In his diverse body of work, the multidisciplinary artist reconciles real and imagined worlds, both lyrical and fragmented, figurative and abstract. What seeps through are media that tackle questions of generational trauma, spirituality, healing, and the power of optimism. All of these function as acts of resistance in his art.
Of all things, he's someone who takes from the light of the world and shines it right back at us through his work. At Art Fair Philippines 2024, Mr. StarCity is set to host a "visual journey" for audiences, meant as a dialogue between the experience and themselves. Pure poetry. Raw truth. New expression.
And he was cool enough to spare me some of his time, as well. All I can say is: Big Bless.
View this post on Instagram>pYou have quite the range, from doing live performances and video works to producing sculptures, poetry, and paintings. What drives these pursuits? What are some of the things you consciously or unconsciously address or express in your work?>h2I'm driven by a quest to explore the human experience, consciously and unconsciously delving into emotions, societal themes, and personal reflections. Each medium is a unique way to capture life's intricate nuances through my artistic perspective. I love it so much.>pYour art practice often reflects the dynamic between spirituality and healing, as well as our shared and personal optimism. How do you think your visual language and style came to be associated with that?>h2All art should reflect a blend of spirituality, healing, and shared optimism. I explore these themes through a visual style rooted in personal and collective hope. The resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of positivity are central to my work. As an artist over the years, I've earnestly sought to figure out how I can illuminate the path for others on this shared journey. Drawing inspiration from love, kindness, and the raw realities of life has been my compass. Each brushstroke tells a story beyond words and I like it that way.>pHe's also known for personally delivering his paintings to his collectors. Cool guy.>p
Photo by @mrstarcity.>pYou're an experimental artist, one of the more innovative ones, I might add. How do you think an idea or feeling morphs into a work of art? How has your practice evolved amidst all the noise, fame, and turbulence?>h2Being recognized as an experimental artist in this era is truly an honor. I strive to channel everything stored within me—pain, fear, joy, and suffering all serve as my inspiration. Despite fame or turbulence attempting to disrupt my process, staying grounded is crucial. Respecting my true passion, I aim to create art that shifts emotions and perspectives. The key to keeping things fresh lies in a continuous quest for reinvention, a commitment to pushing boundaries, and a nonstop passion for new expression.>pALSO READ:>pIsabel Santos Is Caught Up in the Afterglow>pBasti Artadi on His Art: 'My Main Thing Is Always Vibrant Colors and the Little Magic Nuances'>pFor Art Fair Philippines 2024, we were told that you were very particular about the specifications for your works. Can you talk to us more about your goals for this run?>h2The partnership for my Art Fair Philippines 2024 exhibition began with finding a tribe in the Philippines that resonated with my art. Collaborating with my friends Tim Tan and Trickie Lopa, we shared a vision of respect and love for my work.>pExpressing my goal to craft an immersive experience, and inviting the audience into a dialogue with my art, they embraced the idea. I immersed myself in developing the LOVERBOY series, joyfully painting in the studio daily until the collection reached satisfaction. My life's sole aspiration is to share my art, truth, love, and inspiration with the world. Anticipate a visual journey filled with poetry and storytelling.>pMr. StarCity in Hong Kong.>p
Photo by @mrstarcity.
>pDo you have any initial thoughts about Southeast Asian or Filipino contemporary art?>h2Exploring Southeast Asian and Filipino contemporary art, I'm struck by the profound appreciation for diverse expressions. Artists like Pacita Abad, with her vibrant quilting and needlework, and figures like Alfonso Ossorio, whose art evokes a similar sentiment to Jean Dubuffet, showcase the rich love for creativity. The cultural nuances and innovative perspectives in this artistic realm capture my imagination, providing a compelling landscape to explore and engage with.>pDo you have any parting words for us?>h2I would like to end this wonderful conversation by saying this: There’s nothing wrong with the way you create. How you choose to create. Who you choose to create for. Why you choose to create. When you choose to create. There’s nothing wrong with your creation. Just keep creating. Create until you can’t create no more.>p
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