We interviewed Terox in our publication “Abstracted” surrounding the concept of abstract. Visit the publication here.
Can you tell us about how you started graffiti art? What drew you to this style of art?
When I was around 2/3, I started drawing and painting everywhere: walls, the sofa, and even putting my tag on my dad’s car. My parents would take me to Newcastle to look at the Graf walls and to galleries. I would carry a subway art book almost as big as myself.
My love of old-school hip-hop culture drew me to graffiti, and my love for all art added to my contemporary take. I’ve asked for spray cans for as long as I can remember, and when I was 9, I was allowed to try. I’ve not wanted to stop since. Because I was too young then to go and access walls, I started in my garden. I began mixing graffiti with my contemporary art.
How was it like to see your work featured in the Baltic Gallery and the youngest artist with an exhibition there?
Seeing my work in the Baltic was one of my best experiences. It’s been a dream of mine to have my work there for as long as I can remember, and to have achieved that makes me very proud. Arriving for the opening night to find my piece sold was very surreal. I was happy that someone loved ‘bubbles’ as much as I did. I’m very thankful to everyone that took the time to come out to see my work.
You mentioned that your work is influenced or inspired by weather and the rural landscapes – what about these interests you?
My collection, Garden Graf, culminated in two years of work in my garden studio. I’d often put my music on and paint what I saw. Living rurally, it was often these surroundings. I liked what I saw after storms, thunder, rain, and power cuts. I liked the impact on the sky, especially—the weather-inspired shapes and patterns. My work was also weather-dependent, as my studio was outdoors. I’d often go out between rain to quickly spray.
How has old-school hip hop influenced your artwork? Are there any specific artists, songs or album covers that have had a big influence on you?
I love old-school hip-hop culture and all its elements—artists like Nas, Rakim, Mc Shan, and Biz. Markie, to name a few, and album covers like Illmatic, Paid in Full, Down by Law, Liquid Swords, and EPMD inspired me. I love that whole time. I think Art Jean, Michael Basquiat, Keith Harring, and Damien Hurst are all amazing.
What advice would you give to other artists who are young who want to explore graffiti art or contemporary art?
I’d say go for it. People shouldn’t be afraid to be themselves and follow what they love. It’s ok, no matter how different it is from what others are doing. Pick up a can or a brush. Creative expression is very important. It makes you feel happy, free & open. Art expresses our emotions in a very unique way.
How do you hope that viewers will engage with or interpret your artwork?
My work is inspired by traditional Graf but mixed with my contemporary view of my surroundings and my love of hip hop. I hope people can see my respect for the culture and enjoy my pieces. I’m happy to be featured in galleries as much as to turn up to a legal wall, as I get to share my work with a diverse audience. I hope to share my work and have as many people enjoy it as possible.
Where do you see your practice evolving in the future? Do you have any projects upcoming that you would like to talk about?
I hope to continue creating. I’m always trying new ideas. I recently got into acrylics & using found materials. Next year, I’m working on a new collection for my second solo show. I also have some pieces going to galleries and some exciting collaborations.