Today we’d like to introduce you to David Franso.
David, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I was born and raised here in San Diego. I was the kind of kid that wanted to do everything alone. My life was pretty much normal for a kid like me, up until I made it to the 8th grade. That year, I caught a really bad cold and had to treat it with antibiotics, since I could barely even breathe normally, and after it died off, I had noticed three lumps on the side of my neck. At first, I didn’t think much of it, but after further medical examination, my family and I discovered that I had what is called Hodgkins-lymphoma, cancer in the lymphatic system. As soon as I was made aware of the news I was in shock. At first, I was devastated and extremely worried about the stability of my own life, but I realized that sulking was not going to help me in the long run, so I tried to stay as positive as possible during chemotherapy. Even as the chemicals were being pumped into my bloodstream, I tried my hardest to smile and to make a happy moment out of nothing.
Thankfully, I survived, and the battle I had won taught me so many valuable lessons that humbled me beyond words. Unfortunately, the times after my treatments were tough in all levels of my existence, which put me in a deep depression. After dealing with enough pain, I picked up a pencil and paper and started to draw. I fell in love with it, and have been drawing ever since, as it has become a coping mechanism of mine. Aside from drawing, I eventually picked up a Bass, which I also fell in love with. I feel like without my experiences, I wouldn’t have the knowledge and wisdom to be the man I am today. I am currently studying at Grossmont College and because of my new found passion to help others in need, I am a psychology major. I know how it feels to struggle, and because of that, I feel empathy for everybody I come across, and very deeply as well. I believe that connecting to my true spirit brought out parts of my character that would otherwise be looked down on in society, but it definitely brought me the most happiness I think anything in this world can. I almost lost my life, so why should I spend the rest of it pursuing the things society expects me to pursue?
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
My art style can best be described as a mix of surrealistic and psychedelic, but at times I try to stray away from my style and start to experiment. I began drawing colorful, intricate, and smaller pieces, but as time passed, I began to paint on canvas, on clothes, and on pretty much anything I thought would make a cool piece. Each and every work I have created has a meaning, which usually stems from the internal and external issues I face throughout my life, as well as. However, my work is not sad, and should not be taken as so. I hope that my art helps people realize that any situation, good or bad, can be changed for better and that the mind is the strongest organ in the body. It has the power to change one’s reality as it is. It certainly changed mine. Recently, some friends and I started a band, which we decided to call “Mantra”. We should be recording and releasing music soon, and we should be playing shows in the near future, so look out for that. Starting a clothing brand is also a dream of mine, but that is going to take some time to set sail.
How do you think about success, as an artist, and what do quality do you feel is most helpful?
As an artist, success is being able to express my self into my work freely. As long as I release genuine work, I am successful in my own eyes. It would be great to be able to make real money on my work as well, but that is not my priority, nor will it ever be. Being genuine can take you farther than one can expect.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
I currently do not put any of my art online, but I will soon since I’m doing this interview. You can see my work on my Instagram @astromother. I should have way more time to work on new pieces now, so be on the lookout for that. I also try to put some of my art up at local events throughout San Diego, when the chance comes. You can follow Mantra on Instagram @mantra.sd. I should also have a page up for the clothes I make soon.
Contact Info:
- Email: davidfranso1@gmail.com
- Instagram: Personal: @astromother / Mantra: @mantra.sd
Image Credit:
Profile picture – Alexandra Dunnam.
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