Interview

Almost a 4.0 graduate in Geoscience from Southern New Hampshire University, and a prospective Master's candidate in Geological Engineering, Fuggy blends scientific precision with artistic fluidity to challenge and redefine the conventional perceptions of street art and abstract expressionism. His work, celebrated in various high-profile exhibitions and recipient of numerous accolades, not only reflects his rigorous academic grounding but also his deep commitment to societal improvement through art. Fuggy’s creations, ranging from visually striking graffiti to intellectually engaging board games like Siege™ and Sundrian Chess™, invite viewers into a dialogue of exploration, challenging them to decipher complex narratives woven into the very fabric of his pieces. As he continues to push the limits of art and interaction, Fuggy Sevant remains a compelling voice in contemporary art, dedicated to enriching the cultural landscape and inspiring a deeper understanding of our complex world.

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What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?

“My journey into the art world began as an exploration of boundaries - visual, conceptual, and thematic. I have always been fascinated by the interplay of different elements, whether it's colors, shapes, or ideas. Over time, as Fuggy Sevant, I've deepened my engagement with various interests such as mathematics, game theory, and narrative storytelling, which have become integral to my artistic expression. Initially, I was drawn to the raw and expressive power of graffiti, which challenged conventional perceptions of street art. This led me to incorporate complex elements like the Universal Carsonian Numerals into my work, representing a new way of understanding numerical systems through artistic expression. This blend of art and science became a core aspect of what I do, driving me to continuously evolve and integrate diverse influences into my creations, thereby pushing the boundaries of traditional art forms.”

What inspires you?

“What inspires me most profoundly is the interplay between the order and chaos that I observe in both nature and human systems. This duality is a recurring theme in my artwork and my strategic games, such as Siege™ and Sundrian Chess™, where the structured tactics and unpredictabilities of play reflect life’s own complexities. My fascination with how we perceive and interact with numbers also deeply influences my work, particularly through the exploration of Universal Carsonian Numerals. These numerals are not merely mathematical symbols but represent the fluidity and universality of mathematics, integrating seamlessly into the visual and cultural landscapes of my pieces. The dynamic urban environments and their vibrant, ever-changing nature are another significant source of inspiration.
My engagement with graffiti challenges traditional views of street art and incorporates it into broader social narratives, providing commentary on urban life and its intricacies. This perspective encourages me to probe deeper into the societal conflicts, personal interactions, and the stark beauty found within chaos, all of which find expression through the vivid palettes and bold compositions of my art. Moreover, my academic pursuits in geoscience and plans for a master's in geological engineering inform my artistic vision. The study of Earth's processes helps me understand the world's layers and dynamics, which parallels the complexities I explore through art. This academic insight enriches my work, allowing me to create pieces that not only depict natural beauty but also embody a profound understanding of and respect for our planetary systems. Each of these elements—mathematical curiosity, urban vibrancy, and geological insight - come together to inspire a body of work that is rich in detail and expansive in scope. They motivate me to continue pushing the boundaries of what art can represent and how it interacts with the viewer, inviting them to see beyond the surface and engage with the deeper narratives woven into my creations.”

What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?

“The themes I pursue in my artwork are as varied as the mediums I use, but they converge on exploring the complex interplay between structure and randomness, order and chaos. Central to my work is the theme of urban dynamics and the way individuals interact within these spaces. My use of graffiti is not merely for its aesthetic appeal but as a tool for social commentary, reflecting on the intricacies of urban life and the human condition within these contexts. In terms of underlying messages, my work often delves into the concept of identity and perception - how we see ourselves and the world around us, and how these perceptions shape our reality. This is intertwined with my interest in mathematics and particularly in Universal Carsonian Numerals, which challenge traditional numerical systems and propose a new way of understanding and interacting with numbers. By embedding these numerals into my art, I encourage viewers to consider the arbitrary nature of what we take as fundamental truths, such as the way we quantify and measure our world.
Additionally, my strategic games, such as Siege™ and Sundrian Chess™, reflect themes of strategy, conflict, and resolution, mirroring both historical and personal narratives. These games are not just pastimes but are reflective exercises that offer insights into tactical thinking and the consequences of decisions, paralleling the decisions we face in life. Ultimately, my work invites viewers to engage with it on multiple levels—visually, intellectually, and emotionally—challenging them to decipher complexity and find meaning within it. Whether through the chaotic beauty of a graffiti piece or the structured complexity of a game, each element is designed to provoke thought, evoke emotion, and inspire reflection, encouraging a deeper understanding of the themes explored.”

How would you describe your work?

“My work can best be described as a fusion of visual and conceptual artistry that seeks to push the boundaries of conventional art forms while engaging deeply with the viewer. It is fundamentally interdisciplinary, blending elements from street art, mathematics, and narrative storytelling to create a unique visual language that communicates complex ideas in an accessible way. At the core of my artistic expression is the use of dynamic compositions and a vibrant palette, which are instrumental in drawing people into the artwork. The aesthetic allure is immediate, but the depth of the pieces holds a viewer's attention as they begin to uncover the layered meanings embedded within. For instance, the graffiti elements in my work challenge traditional perceptions of street art by incorporating complex elements like Universal Carsonian Numerals, which bring a new dimension of understanding to numerical systems through artistic expression. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a rich conceptual layer that invites deeper engagement. In describing my work, I also emphasize the interactive nature of the viewing experience.
My pieces are not meant to be passively observed; they are designed to provoke thought, evoke emotion, and inspire reflection. Through the distorted, dynamic typography and the structured complexity of my game designs, I aim to engage the viewer on multiple levels, challenging them to think beyond the surface and interact with the underlying narratives and themes. This interaction is a critical aspect of my art, as it transforms the act of viewing from a passive to an active experience, making each piece a dialogue between the artist and the audience. Overall, my work is an exploration of the boundaries between different disciplines and forms of expression, aiming to create a cohesive narrative that speaks to both the beauty and the complexity of the human experience.”

Which artists influence you most?

“My artistic influences are eclectic, drawing from a broad spectrum of styles and eras, but there are a few key figures whose work has profoundly shaped my approach to art. Jackson Pollock, with his pioneering drip paintings, has been a significant influence, particularly in his ability to convey complex emotions and the chaos of the subconscious through seemingly random yet deeply intentional splatters of paint. His work embodies the freedom and the disciplined abandon that I strive to incorporate into my own pieces, particularly in how I approach the dynamic compositions of my graffiti and abstract works. Another major influence is William Kentridge, known for his animated films and drawings which explore themes of time, history, and social injustice. Kentridge's method of creating thought-provoking narratives through simple yet powerful visual expressions has inspired me to integrate narrative depth into my own work, particularly in how I use text and imagery to comment on urban life and societal dynamics.
In addition to these, I am deeply inspired by Yayoi Kusama, whose work resonates with me on a personal and artistic level. Kusama's exploration of obsessive repetition and her use of polka dots to communicate her experiences with hallucinations and mental health challenges have shown me the power of art as a medium for personal catharsis and psychological exploration. Like Kusama, I too navigate personal mental health challenges, and her courage and creativity in transforming her struggles into art have encouraged me to channel my own experiences into my creative processes. Her ability to create immersive environments invites the viewer into her perception of the universe, which is something I aim to emulate by drawing viewers into complex, interactive experiences with my work. These artists, each in their own way, have influenced not just the techniques I employ but also my philosophical approach to art as a tool for personal expression, social commentary, and intellectual engagement. Their impact is evident in the themes I explore and the methods I employ to provoke thought and evoke emotional responses in my audience.”

“Central to my work is the theme of urban dynamics and the way individuals interact within these spaces.”

What is your creative process like?

“My creative process is deeply iterative and exploratory, blending rigorous discipline with spontaneous intuition. It begins with a concept or a theme that intrigues me - this could be a mathematical puzzle like the Universal Carsonian Numerals, a narrative challenge posed by my strategy games, or a social dynamic I observe in urban environments. From this starting point, I dive into a phase of extensive research and sketching, where I allow myself to explore all angles, often jotting down ideas and drawing preliminary sketches on whatever I can find - be it napkins, the backs of envelopes, or dedicated sketchbooks. As I refine my ideas, the process becomes more structured. I often lay out the groundwork with clear intentions, drawing from the influences of artists like Jackson Pollock and William Kentridge, who exemplify the balance between chaos and control. This stage involves detailed planning of the artwork’s composition and the materials I will use, which can range from traditional paints to digital media or even found objects for my more three-dimensional works. The actual execution of my art is where discipline meets spontaneity. While I have a clear plan, I remain open to the unexpected. This openness is crucial because it allows the artwork to evolve naturally. The dynamic and sometimes chaotic nature of this phase often reflects the core themes of my work - complexity, interaction, and transformation.
For instance, when working on graffiti pieces, the fluidity of spray paint and the texture of the wall can influence the final outcome, just as the unpredictability of ink flow might alter the appearance of a piece inspired by Yayoi Kusama’s immersive environments. Finally, reflection is a key component of my process. After completing a piece, I spend time analyzing and interpreting it, considering how well it communicates the intended message or emotion. This often leads to further iterations or even new projects, as each piece of work provides insights that fuel my continuous creative journey. This cyclical process, characterized by an ongoing dialogue between conception, creation, and reflection, ensures that each artwork is not just a static creation but a living part of an ever-evolving narrative.”

What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?

“An artist's role in society is multifaceted and deeply significant. At its core, art serves as a mirror, reflecting the cultural, social, and personal realities of the time. Artists have the unique ability to capture and express complex emotions and situations, offering insights that might be overlooked or underrepresented in mainstream dialogues. Through this reflection, art can provoke thought, evoke emotions, and inspire change, making it a powerful tool for social commentary and cultural expression. Furthermore, artists play a critical role in challenging the status quo and pushing the boundaries of conventional thinking. By presenting new perspectives and questioning established norms, artists foster a culture of critical thinking and innovation. This is particularly evident in works that integrate elements like the Universal Carsonian Numerals or explore themes through games like Siege™ and Sundrian Chess™, where the blending of disciplines showcases new ways to perceive and interact with the world. Artists also contribute to the enrichment of society's cultural landscape. By creating works that are not only thought-provoking but also aesthetically pleasing, artists enhance the quality of life for individuals and communities. They bring beauty, joy, and inspiration into everyday life, which is essential for mental and emotional well-being. Lastly, in today’s global society, artists help forge connections across cultural and geographic divides. Through universal languages of visual arts, music, literature, and performance, artists can unite people around shared human experiences, regardless of their background. This role is increasingly important in a world where understanding and empathy are needed to address global challenges. In summary, the role of an artist in society is to reflect, challenge, enrich, and connect. By fulfilling these roles, artists not only contribute to the cultural vitality of their communities but also play a crucial part in the ongoing dialogue about who we are, what we value, and how we understand each other and the world around us.”