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Jen Barnett interviews Bristol artist Cheba about his upcoming new solo show at Weapon of Choice gallery

 

Bristol graffiti artist Cheba’s new solo show opens 17 September at Weapon of Choice Gallery. Having played a big role in Bristol’s art scene, opening Weapon of Choice Gallery and taking part in the Crimes of Passion exhibit at the RWA amongst other things, he hasn’t put on a solo show in almost a decade.

 

I caught up with him over email and asked about the gallery, the show, and his very recognisable character.

 

 

You're about to launch your first solo show in eight years. Why is now the right time?

 

I've been meaning to do another for a while but have kept myself busy with other projects and group shows. We had a few people at the gallery ask when my show was, so I thought why not. I didn't think it had been eight years until I sat down and thought back to when my last show was.

 

 

What have you been doing in the interim?

 

I've been working for a few design companies and local publishers for several years, designing books and magazines, including Banksy's Bristol and Children of the Can, and more recently starting up Weapon of Choice. My artwork has always been a hobby for me, done away from working hours.

 

 

Speaking of Weapon of Choice, you seem to have put your own art on the back burner while running Weapon of Choice Gallery through its first year. Has it changed the way you approach your art?

 

It's been interesting to see both sides of the fence. I don't think it has changed the way I approach my work, but maybe the way I approach galleries in the future.

 

 

Which would you rather be known for your art or your part in running Weapon of Choice?

 

My own work. I will always have my artwork.

 

Weapon of Choice is not about one artist, it’s about representing the city's artists. For them to do what they like with a space, sell their clothing, or come for a coffee and discuss ideas.

 

 

How did you get started as an artist?

 

I had a strong interest in creating and drawing from an early age. I didn't know much about street art when I started out. I remember seeing bits around Bristol and reading Subway Art in art at school.

 

One piece I remember clear to was an Inkie (and Flix?) piece at Barton Hill Youth Club, driving past in my dad’s car and getting him to stop and look.

 

My brother was in a band and used to get me to make stickers with the name on and plaster them everywhere for him. I started doing it with my own art, and found this whole other scene. The stickers moved to pen/chalk drawings and paste ups, which few artists were doing in Bristol at that time.

 

I skateboarded almost every day so was constantly moving around the city. I started to meet more artists and got into using spray paint and bombing.

 

 

How do you think your street work translates to canvas for a gallery show? Which do you prefer?

 

I always prefer painting big and on the street. My character was designed for the street, to be done fast.

 

I think you have to try and recreate the feeling as when you see it on the street. I think this is why I like layers and mixing crisp lines with mess and drips.

 

 

Where did the character come from?

 

I wanted to make a character that was simple and quick to put up on the street that people would recognise easily. I never got on with letters; I always drew characters and he just developed over the years.

 

 

In one sentence, describe your art style.

 

Graphic, bright and simple, layered with mess.

 

 

What is your source of inspiration?

 

Growing up in Bristol had a big influence. My other sources of inspiration include 80's cartoons and films, people, cities, travelling, and lots of scribbling.

 

 

Can you explain your name? Where does it come from? What does it mean?

 

It's been a nick name for a long time. It generally came from my real name being shouted up three flights of stairs in a Bristolian accent. It kinda just evolved over the years and stuck.

 

 

What can people expect to see in the show? What sort of prices will the pieces be?

 

Bright, colourful pieces, a few tribute pieces to childhood characters like Dr Teeth and artists like Keith Haring. There's work of all sizes, mostly big but something for everyone.

 

 

What will you work on after you finish with this show? Are you planning another solo show, or will we have to wait until 2018?

 

Expanding the empire...

 

I'd like to plan some more shows abroad. Possibly some other solo shows in the pipeline, and hopefully before 2018.

 

 

Are there any other shows you're particularly looking forward to seeing? What has been your favourite exhibit in Bristol recently?

 

Limited Press guys, up after me at Weapon of Choice, will be good and Lokey’s show there in November will be one to look out for, plus a few others I’m not sure I can mention yet.

 

Not been able to get out and see many shows recently, but I thought the 'Art from the New World' at the museum was very good.

 

 

Lastly, if you weren't an artist, what would you do?

 

Designer or event organiser.

 

 

Cheba's solo show runs at the Weapon of Choice gallery located at 14 St Michael's Hill from 17 September to 17 October

 

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