Meet TJ Agbo: one of our 10 Artists to Watch of 2022. A product of South London, this visual artist produces striking, vibrant pieces that would capture anyone’s attention at first glance. TJ’s art discusses the female influences in his life, various other creative mediums he explores, and how the natural world influences his daily life. Discover the story behind the artist’s white, sharp lines, dark tones, and rich hues.
Tell us a bit about your story and background: who are you, where are you from, and how did you find yourself in the world of art?
My name is TJ, I live in South London. Art has always been a part of my life. My mother and Aunties gave me the tools to do whatever I want in life. Art materials were always around, swimming, tennis, piano lessons. I had a childhood rich in experiences. To be brief, I feel like art chose me.
You describe yourself as a ‘Multidisciplinary Artist’. What are the requirements of becoming one?
Not sure if there are requirements but I express my creativity through various mediums, I paint, draw, take photographs, make music both as an artist and producer, I graphic design and design clothes, design buildings both architecture, and interior design. Regular visionary-esc activities.
Who or what influences your work and life?
Natural life influences me, from nature to indigenous culture.
How would you define your work? What technique (s) do you explore?
My work is the study of the human experience. Both internal and external. Emotional, spiritual, and the physical. My technique is to explore myself and I use whatever medium best fit to express and present my findings.
What does your creative process look like to you, start to finish?
Artwise, I sit at my table and let the piece create itself step by step. I ask myself questions internally like “what colour eyes and an answer pops into my head”. I just build the pieces step by step like that. I make art like Jay Z makes songs, freestyle.
If you could choose a theme song for your life right now, what would it be and why?
‘If I Can’t’ by 50 Cent. Just because I created a lifetime’s worth of work filled with references, Art history parallels, culture preservation, occult knowledge, and all sorts of other gems. And I feel as if I don’t reach the pinnacle of the art world, then the system must be dismantled for multiple flaws, inefficiency, and being archaic.
If you could no longer use your current medium, how else would you express your creativity?
Music or film most likely.
How would you like to be remembered?
As a human being that left it all here. Someone that lived naked from beginning to end and faced all their fears.
Where do you see yourself going next, with your work?
Honestly, I don’t know. I’m enjoying the journey and remain exploring.
Head over to TJ's Instagram to stay connected and keep up with his artistic journey.
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