Artist Interview - Jaymes Josef

Artist Spotlight - Jaymes Josef

From doing graffiti as a teenager to group art shows, we got an inside look into the journey of one of our Chicago artists, Jaymes Josef.

How did you get started with art?
I was always into art honestly ever since I can remember but I would have to say doing graffiti as a teenager led meto the path I'm on now.  

IG: @jaymesjosef

Are you self taught or did you have formal training?
So I'm mostly self taught but I did take a couple of classes at Columbia College Chicago that helped me understand the technical side of creating as a visual artist.

How do you describe your particular style of art?
Not really big on falling into a particular style of art but I would say I'm definitely influenced by outsider art, folk art, graffiti art, ancient Egyptian stuff is pretty rad too. I don't know it's tough to say.

IG: @jaymesjosef

What do you do to help get yourself out of a creative block?
I feel like naturally every type of artist whether it's visual or musical it's gonna happen. Everyone hits a block every now and then I feel. You just can't force yourself to do something. But at the same time, you can't ignore those voices in your head that tell you to add a little color or throw in some texture. You gotta keep grinding through the block but at a slower pace.

What is an obstacle you've overcome that you're most proud of? 
I think getting into group art shows and being more social with other artists that I enjoy. There was a lot of me not wanting to be part of the art scene for a while but then I let that all go and started to establish myself as a local artist that people seem to appreciate now. Also not giving a crap what other people think of my work. And honestly I think my stuff sucks anyway.

What's one piece of advice you wish you knew when you were starting out? 
Not to overthink it. If you’re an artist you will always be artist so don’t get hooked on one particular piece of work. You will make tons of pieces and each one can be different and beautiful in its own way.

What's one of your goals for 2019?
I would like to continue networking, start a website, drop some apparel, enamel pins, and more public art like a few murals for sure.

IG: @jaymesjosef

About Us

PakRat Ink was created from an obsession with street art. Fueled by a desire to make and create something different, this is the first streetwear brand of its kind. Our city focused brand collaborates with local street artists to transform their street art into unique streetwear pieces. Each design begins with an actual photograph of the mural so all of the beautiful, real life details from the artwork are captured. From the texture of a brick wall or wooden fence to the weathered paint chippings, we see the beauty in these imperfections and use them to create something extraordinary. We produce everything in-house at our location in Chicago to ensure the highest quality possible. Find Out More.

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