Today we’d like to introduce you to Clark Silva.
Clark, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I’ve been drawing and painting since I was a little kid, so art has always been in my life. I grew up around the folk art traditions of San Diego; from Mexican Day of the Dead to Portuguese floral art and the traditional American tattoo style of the Navy. Taking art class through high school and into college, I finally coalesced the art styles that I came to love into one I call “Tattoo Folk Art.”
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
I call my art style “Tattoo Folk Art.” I’ve been intrigued by iconography and the art styles that were built on it, such as Egyptian, Medieval, Art Deco, and American Tattoo. Being a rocker and metalhead myself, Tattoo art has always stood out for me. The connection of Tattoo to music, along with its reliance on symbolism, has always intrigued me. Much of the work that I created ties into music in some way or another. Music has been extremely important to me in my life, and I usually use the phrase “Music Saves” in my work. Music and art are celebratory, and I want that joy to come across in my work. I want what I make to connect with the audience the way music connects with me.
A major influence on my work is the infusion of elements from the holiday Dia De Los Muertos, or Day of the Dead. Everyone growing up in San Diego is probably familiar with sugar skulls, papel picado, and Calaveras. What connects with me the most about Dia De Los Muertos is its celebratory nature. It is a holiday that remembers those who have passed on and celebrates life. I use motifs from the holiday to signify things that should be remembered and celebrated, things that bring joy to people’s life. Sugar skull and face paint motifs find their way onto paintings ranging from music, classic movies, superheroes, pirate ships, and dinosaur skulls; anything that makes me happy.
In your view, what is the biggest issue artists have to deal with?
I think the biggest challenge facing artists is motivation and self-esteem. It’s very hard to keep on top of making sure you are putting yourself out there, and having the courage to post your work. So many artists keep their work hidden for fear of rejection, or let their social media accounts fall behind. A major part of being an artist is putting your work out there for the world to see it.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
I’m in art shows around Southern California. I have an Instagram, @artofclarksilva, where people can see my work, inquire about purchases, and see what shows I’m going to be in. I’ve had people purchase prints to take to tattoo shops, and seeing those pictures of my work as tattoo always makes me really excited.
Contact Info:
- Address: 1956 Rue Michelle
Chula Vista
CA 91913 - Website: www.artofclarksilva.com
- Phone: 619 495 1881
- Email: clarkart88@yahoo.com
- Instagram: @artofclarksilva
Getting in touch: SDVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
