Interview
Paddy Watts
Pad is a professional human being. He paints for charity and for passion.
1) You donate (to a just giving page) and receive a mural/canvas/etc then you feel great.
2)Pad gets to paint and he gets to feel great.
3) Charity receive your donation and they feel great - its win, win, win.
He is based in the London area.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“At the age of 13, I was introduced to a famous book that documented the Graffiti explosion in New York called "Subway Art." I started painting Graffiti in my teenage years alongside raving in the 1990's.”
What does your work aim to say? Does it comment on any current social or political issues?
“So, I like to paint many things, sometimes there's message on pollution/war/racism etc. Sometimes, I just paint something because I just think it would be cool. I love painting a message within the canvas of a brick wall, like the hidden agenda. I also manipulate logos or road signs for a message to convey, which entails theft and fun time night time activities. A mission. Painting graffiti letters both illegal and legal still sits well on my list.”
Do you plan your work in advance, or is it improvisation?
“Everything is planned. It starts with an idea or small vision. Sketching the idea happens at the last minute. I make mistakes constantly which I now understand is part of my process. It’s all about growth.”
Are there any art world trends you are following?
“I am trying to break the trend of negativity. Being awake in this reality is good for the soul.”
What process, materials and techniques do you use to create your artwork?
“So, there's no lighting bolt moments of inspiration. I think of something cool that I like. I prepare by creating the picture by either sketch or printed image, then obtain the paint with correct colours. Sometimes, I use a scaffold tower for high spots. I allocate time for it and go and paint the thing. It’s really simple. Spray cans on a wall, oils or acrylics on a painting, charcoal sometimes.”
What does your art mean to you?
“It is an extension of my personality and soul. My thoughts, emotions, desires, actions and message to the world. To help and comment on what is reality. "Where the words of the prophets are written on the Subway walls" (Paul Simon quote). It makes me feel grateful and I love it.”
What’s your favourite artwork and why?
“A few years ago, I collaborated with someone amazing to paint a surfer girl on a brick wall wave in London. The work was huge and it took 3 days. She is no longer in my life, but I take the lessons and gifts we gave to each other on life's journey and continue to grow.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“I am exhibiting at Roys Art Fair at the OXO Tower London 27th - 29th September 2024. Some of my graffiti/Street art Festivals across the world: Meeting of styles , Kosovo. Paint St Louis, USA Fitzroy, Australia. Meeting of styles, UK Upfest, Bristol UK Cheltenham, paint festival, UK Worcester festival UK Nosily festival UK Bring the paint, Leicester UK Holland, Flevopark UK Berlin, Blankenburg, Germ. MTN 94, Barcelona, Spain. Paris, paint, FRA Wallgames, Northampton UK.”
Website: pad303.com
Instagram: @pad303
