The self-taught pure talent
As a platform which covers everything from Hip Hop to painters etc, we always love when a talented artist combines two separate worlds in ways that few others can. Tony Richard is one of these people. The artist has a passion for creating portraits and murals of musicians, and the world is taking notice. Recently covered by The Shade Room, Tony caught our attention with an amazing wall piece of Lil Boosie. We tracked him down in hopes for an interview and he was cool enough to put us on his inspirations and drop some knowledge in the process. Check it out!
1. Where are you from? Did you have an artistic upbringing or did you discover things on your own?
Houston born, as an infant moved to Broussard, mainly raised in (Lafayette, La).No artist in my inner family, we went through a lot as a family so painting became my way of focusing and coping. I discovered it on my own. After being nagged by my teachers to stop drawing so much and begin painting, I picked it up.
2. What draws you towards themes like Hip Hop and “Making hood museums”? It’s fire!
Hip Hop/Rap has always been in my family. For family reunions I use to rap 2pac and Kriss Cross. I’ve always found relevant things in their conversations. My moms was a heavy Hip Hop head. We use to leave church Sunday and the first thing she put on was either Juvenile 400 degrees or Master P ghetto D. Not to mention it’s not one sided and barely sugar coated.
3. What would you tell a young artist trying to find his way?
Pray for purpose. What is meant for you will be for you. Don’t force anything. Be patient… Art isn’t your iphone.
4. What’s the toughest thing about being an artist?
Several things. Having faith that it’ll pay the bills, which it has. Clients not knowing exactly what they want (that frustrates the hell out of me). Customers trying to change what we agreed upon. Customers trying to low ball you for something that is “one of a kind” and can last for several generations. Self discipline as well. Being your own boss. I think that’s it. Ohhh and painting something you don’t want to paint, talk about draining.
5. What’s on the horizon for you where do you see your talents taking you in the future?
I Tattoo, Rap, & Paint. From what I here I’m dope at all 3, so with me being the first of my kind idk. BIG!
