Alvin Valendra is an artist who started his art career in 2017. Apart from being a digital illustrator, he also frequently uses printmaking to materialize his works. Graffiti brought his interest in the world of fine arts and started his artistic journey from graffiti, then his interest in printmaking and digital illustration until now. It was Alvin's interest in the visual arts that prompted him to attend art college, where he was able to explore several visual techniques and styles that assist in the art creation process. His works are inspired by urban landscape forms that are also close to him and are heavily influenced by graffiti, skateboarding, music, and film culture. His works often discuss dense urban life with visuals of buildings that are processed with his own unique visual style. Alvin often pours what he observes into works of art. In some of his works, a visual object of garbage often appears because he sees trash on every street corner. This is also used as a symbol of people's consumptive behavior, especially in the fast-paced era like today. That's a little bio review about Alvin Valendra's journey and creative process.
We recently caught up with Alvin after High Art 2023 to learn more about his most recent inspirations:
Where do you find your creative inspiration?
Around my neighborhood mainly, from movies, music, skateboarding culture, and my everyday life.
Why do you do what you do?
Because I believe in what I do and who enjoy doing it.
What art/artist do you most identify with?
Jay Howell, Soon Easy.
What themes do you pursue the most?
The theme of urban life is close to my life and something that I often express in my works.
What role does an artist have in society?
An artist has an important role in society because art is a way to communicate thoughts, feelings, and ideas.
What is your artistic outlook on life?
Life is a journey. Life is something that needs to be lived with joy and pleasure.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Be a useful person for others and don't waste your time.
Do you listen to music while you are creating? If yes, share the song and artist that you listen to while creating art.
Deftones - Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away); Sonic Youth - Dirty Boots.
What's the best thing about being an artist?
Can express my thoughts in a visual form.
What is your dream project?
Collaborate with a brand to be realized in the form of a product or merchandise.
Support Alvin by shopping his collection here.
