We are honored to have, Michael Blackford, as our Featured Artist, he may not consider himself an artist, he phrases it “art appreciator” but we still consider photography an art, and he captures some amazing pieces and helps give them exposure, and that’s an art all in its self, trust us we would know 🙂 Visit his profile to see some cool art done by various artists.
Find Michael: Instagram – @micblack_iam
How old are you?
Believe it or not, 52
Where are you from?
Melbourne Australia. Born and bred.
How long have you been an artist? What is your specialty? Where do u find inspiration?
I’d hardly consider myself to be an artist, I’m more an art appreciator. I take photographs of street art pieces in and around Melbourne (and when I travel) and post them to my Instagram profile for other street art lovers and artists to enjoy. I like looking for the big and bold statement pieces as well as the quirky little items that some people may walk past and never notice. If I can frame people within the shot it makes it even better. My inspiration is on the walls all over Melbourne. Melbourne is one of the street art hot beds of the world with famous international artists regularly making big and bold statements on our streets, as well as world leading local talents on display.
Do you have a job in the art industry? If So, what’s one thing you don’t like about it? If no, where would your dream job be?Â
No job in the art industry unfortunately. Although nonetheless creative, I work in the IT industry which is a far cry from the world of the arts. If I had a dream job it would be travelling the world photographing and meeting the great street artists of the world. I guess I am really lucky that Melbourne already has some of the best in the business.
Do you have a favorite Artist?
My favorite would be Matt Adnate (@adnate) who’s a local Melbourne guy who is at the top of his game in the street art world. His murals are awe inspiring and breathtaking.
What is one accomplishment you’ve had in your life? Does not need to be art related.
I joined a rock cover band as a singer. It’s one of the best things I’ve ever done and is such a creative outlet with a great bunch of people. We do gigs for community events a local venues and love to perform. If you’re ever in Melbourne come and check out the Smashed Monkeys.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10 years? 20 years?
LOL, closer to retirement! I’m 52, turning 53 so looking forward to doing more of the things I love to do like photography, videography and music, and less “working for the man”.
If you could meet and talk to any person in the world, dead or alive, who would it be?
Banksy. I want to know what he thinks of the hype. I really like his stencil work, but, come on, it it worthy of being noticed world wide? Come on Banksy, let’s meet and discuss (I reckon he’d agree too!).
How is one way you make money with your art?
There’s no way to make money out of my art, photographically or musically. I don’t do it for money, I do it because I like doing it, not because I get anything for it. Whether I have 250 followers or 25 it doesn’t matter to me.
If you could go anywhere in the world where would it be and why?
New York City. The underground street art scene there looks like it’s off the hook. I’m planning on heading there in July this year. I went to Seattle last year, and although sometimes tricky to find, there’s a really close-knit and quirky bunch of artists there and I got some great shots.
What is your favorite brand of art supply? Whether it’s a brand of pencils or brand of camera or software
I like my Samsung phone. The Galaxy S8 is great for high quality candid shots on the go.
Any advice for young artists?
Do what you love. Don’t worry or think other people will love, do it for yourself. If you love it, it will show, and others will come along for the ride.
