Artist Spotlight: Dave Watkins
Socksanova presents - REAL ABSTRACT
-Bay View, WIThe man, the myth, the legend: REAL ABSTRACT, or Dave Watkins as many others affectionately know him by. We’re honored to represent! Unmatched energy, unmatched drive - literally, check out the Art Van(delay).
Between his multi-story murals, national art-bomb campaigns, or exhibitions with multiple galleries; there’s no denying his legendary status. That said, Dave’s easily one of the most humble beings we’ve ever met. A man of the people, a husband, a father, and to our fortune - also a Socksanova Thread.
We asked Dave a few questions to learn more about what drives him to keep striving, how art found him, and more. Read more about Real Abstract, and some other ice breakers for when you see him around, below:
Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
“I’m old. I’ve been painting and showing my work in Milwaukee and beyond for the last 20 years.”
Can you describe your artistic style in three words or less?
“Line and form.”
Can you share a memorable achievement or milestone in your artistic career that you're particularly proud of?
“Getting a painting into the Milwaukee Bucks Art Collection was a pretty big deal for me, being the number one Bucks's fan in the world.”
What drew you to collaborate with Socksanova?
“I love cool socks and never imagined I could have my own design. So I jumped at the opportunity!”
Of course we had to ask, is a hot dog a sandwich?
“Nope, it’s a hot dog.”
What are some of the most common challenges you encounter as an artist and how do you overcome some of these?
“Getting a thick skin when it comes to entering juried shows and dealing with rejection.”
What are some of your favorite pastimes outside of your art life?
“I love messing with cars, would love to have a designated garage to work and tinker.”
Are there any local artists or art movements in Milwaukee that have inspired or influenced your work?
“It's pretty great that Milwaukee has caught on to public art and murals, I love being part of it.”
What's the most unusual or unconventional material or tool you've used to create your art?
“Nothing too crazy, I once peeled layers and layers of prints off an old billboard and still use those in collage paintings to this day.”
If you were any other animal, what would you be and why?
“Sloth and chill.”
Are there any artists throughout history you’d like to work with, and why?
“Would love to have studied under painter Richard Diebenkorn. Just one of my favorite painters of all time.”
If you could give one piece of advice to aspiring artists, what would you need to tell them?
“It takes a very very long time to develop your own style. Be patient and just keep creating.”
We’re honored to represent one of the freshest in the midwest. Once a Thread, always a Thread. Check out more information on his website: https://realabstract.com
Thanks for a few moments of your attention! Time is precious so we hope you found value or learned something new here. More cool details about our Threads to come! Be sure to stay in the seam by joining our newsletter for notifications and updates on Socksanova happenings.
Please welcome REAL ABSTRACT to the Socksanova family!
