The Peace Queen (Genetaska) + zoom

The Wait/The Gift (Kanenhagenat) + zoom

The End of Sun's Grief + zoom

Mikapi (Fights Alone Bravely) + zoom

TheKidbelo (David Brunning)

Amor Que Brado + zoom

Empress + zoom

Focus + zoom

Freedom Soldier + zoom

Growing up in a small town The Kidbelo (David Brunning) found he had a talent for drawing at an early age. Always drawing letters and words, the Kidbelo evolved into what he calls a graffiti writer naturally and considers words and letters to be his muse, his inspiration and the framework for his art. In 1999 he moved to Calgary and joined a larger community of graffiti artists. The Kidbelo's clients include Holt Renfrew, Adidas, Henry Singer Fashion Group, Red Point Media, Snatch Rock n Roll Lounge and Art Central. His work was prominently featured in the highly successful "Art Under Pressure" Exhibition at the Art Gallery of Calgary in 2005.

What is your artwork about (underlying concept, focus, themes, intent, etc)?

My artwork is about self-expression most often influenced by lettering and design, mixed heavily with personal depth and reflection carrying undertones of mixed emotions.

What informs your artwork or what are your influences?

Other graffiti artists, music and everyday life influence me. I have also found that doing commission work has challenged me and so grown me in my artwork.

What matters to you most about the work that you do?

What matters most is that I am evolving as an artist with each piece and developing not only aspects to my technique but also rapport with my clients. I enjoy the people I do work for and sell pieces to!

Is there a trigger or a starting point for each piece?

My work starts with a bang usually – chaotic almost. I like calling it organized chaos. There is a method to what I do and I know it well, whereas others may not be so sure. There is freedom in the studio and in the work!

How has your work evolved over the last five years?

It has become more refined and clean, as well as more diverse. I am seeing a lot of growth. I used to use only cans of spray-paint and paint markers, now I am using paint brush and other tools and mediums.

What is currently the central motivation for or conceptual concern in your work?

Expression. Freedom. Exploration.

What mediums, techniques, or processes are involved in your art making (and why these)?

Spray-paint, acrylic paint, water, paint markers and anything I might think will add originality or difference to my work. I like acrylic – it dries fast!

What are your other passions in life and how have these influenced your work?

People. Love. Music. Joy. And pain. You might figure out how they have influenced my work by knowing that I am very observant and present in my life. I am very passionate and my worldview is quite big. Life is exciting – good or bad, that pushes much of what I do.

Why are you an artist?

Why? I am gifted with ability and talent, I listened to it and developed it and I am in constant appreciation for it. Creating is amazing! Limitless almost. So why not?

Selected Exhibitions

Publications

• Avenue magazine, Galleries West, FFWD, BeatRoute and many more