Introduction by Brendan Hayes
Mellowtones might be the most low key visual artist on Instagram, but his work delivers swifter punches than most of the mainstream accounts we see. His sublimely curated gram hosts an array of visuals that stimulate the spirit and provides a healthy dose of Nostalgia. Themes range from many different decades and encompass various facets of nature, pop culture, film, and more. Don't be surprised when you find yourself in awe over the textures, hues, and collages that renders your eyes speechless. We loved his work so much that we had to get him in Nuance for an interview which you can read below.
Where do you draw inspiration from?
Sometimes the inspiration or idea to create a certain artwork comes out of nowhere and knocks me over the head. But for the most part, it comes from exploring other artists that interest me. For example, I recently got commissioned to create some video content for a musician friend of mine and before the shoot, I dove deep into the world of foreign art films. Specifically, films by Chinese director Wong Kar Wai. I was really inspired by the eccentric camera angles of cinematographer Christopher Doyle, the overly saturated col, and the overall aesthetic of Hong Kong during the mid-’90s. Inspiration and research are key.
How do you define yourself and your art?
As of right now, I’m fairly lost, and the art I choose to create is mostly a reflection of how I feel at the time.
Do you consider yourself a graphic designer?
Yes and no. Although I do have a passion for graphic design; I don’t want the title of a graphic designer to limit the possibilities of my art.
Is this all original work because it’s truly mind-blowing?
Hahaha, yes. I do create a lot of collages that incorporate images from my collection of vintage magazines.
What decade do you think applies to your visuals?
This is a really interesting question. I feel that a lot of art nowadays relies heavily on a feeling of falsified nostalgia. I think it is okay to idealize the past, especially aspects that are visually appealing like the grain and imperfections of a Super 8 camera or the unique characteristics of old and torn paper. But, I feel that some artists take this too far and they center their entire artwork around it. In my opinion, the artwork should make you feel something deeper than nostalgia, it should move you. Although, I am not saying that I have never done this, because I have. all of my work is very deep and in the past, I have created pieces that are completely centered around a vintage aesthetic. But I view those artworks as experiments. They allow me to play around with new techniques so that in the future I can combine that aesthetic with something meaningful.
What purpose through art do you try to achieve?
Well for me personally, it helps me escape reality for a brief moment. It allows me to dig deep into my mind to work through and express negative and sometimes positive emotions. I want the viewer to look at my artwork and feel what was going through my head when I made it.