Interview
Charles Crompton
Charles Crompton is a professional Bunknik performance poet, producer and MC. He performs his poetry in the guise of his alter ego Shaggy Doo Beats B.O.P. , whom he created in 1996 whilst host, initiator and poetry co-ordinator of a weekly Monday night happening of original South Australian jazz and spoken word called, 'Beat Route' at the legendary Cargo Club in Adelaide, South Australia. Charles continues to manage Shaggy and several highlights have included the self-publication of Charles' poetry art book in full colour entitled, 'Readings from the little yellow book', in 2009. They then brought these poems and more from the page to the stage at the Adelaide Fringe in 2010, 2011 and 2013 by teaming up with hip jazz trio, 'The Jazzcateers', led by saxophonist Chris Soole. Both Charles and Shaggy also travelled to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2011 as part of a 2 month Europe adventure. They are keen to be making their debut in the United States of America with 'Sparring with Beatnik Ghosts'.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“I was born in Adelaide, South Australia and began my creative journey then. My start in the art world began when I was four years old. Gathered around me were my diverse relatives as I read my story aloud. Entranced by my oratory they were intrigued to find out what happened next. The vibe was positive and the characters were a castle, a beautiful witch (a talented woman) and how they got along. Very trippy. Funny too. So, even then I wanted to be an author and I did self-publish my poetry art book called ‘Readings from the little yellow book’ in 2008. Full circle moment as a social worker, counselor and librarian. Not fantasy instead my dream made real.”
What does your work aim to say? Does it comment on any current social or political issues?
“Yes. Satire through subtlety collage style. I aim to be understood by a free-thinking individual. My message is inspired by my philosophy called Bunknik ©. This means anyone can make something up because it's not real. The moment anyone doesn't believe is to become evil. Evil exists and that sucks.”
Do you plan your work in advance, or is it improvisation?
“Improvisation spoken word and art. Work with written words and improvise from here to create new moments with humorous results. I pursue positive thoughts.”
Are there any art world trends are you following?
“No. I chart my own adventure. Like dnb and daubism and bunk art movement Eduardo can't remember his surname at the moment.”
What process, materials and techniques do you use to create your artwork?
“Collage. Poetry both hands on experience, also drawing and colouring in. All media is considered. For writing, I listen to my inner child and take notes. I think about the audience and write for me. For art, I collect my materials first then build up my visual images augmented by text. I work with copyright and acknowledge sources. I like colour photocopies, photos, flyers and stuff that'll work for the big picture. Go for visual authencity.”
What does your art mean to you?
“A lot. Self expression adds sunlight to darkness and I love the ambience and the colouring in vibes it produces. Laughing at myself and others in a shared experience world. Inspired drawing is tough to do but I make it fun.”
What’s your favourite artwork and why?
“My favourite is by Vincent Van Gogh. Dan's la chambre de la artiste because we dare to dream.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“Yes. Google Shaggy Doo Beats BOP performance poet character clips on YouTube. I don't have a link but I am a featured artist with Musicians supporting my act called the Jazzcateers. Google Swing High jazz funk music called Poetic funk fusion on YouTube. My channel Charles Crompton. I have an event on in Adelaide South Australia 18 September Winston Hindley St West 8pm-2am. I'll be MCing as MC SDBB and hosting.”
Website: www.shaggydoobeats.com.au
