CHILLY WILLY'S IGLOO

How did you become a well-known artist in the sticker art scene? Can you describe your journey to becoming a recognized artist?

It's a bit weird to think of myself as a "well-known" sticker artist, given the incredible talent out there that I truly admire. My journey into the sticker art scene has been a mix of passion, persistence, and the joy of connecting with a global community of artists.

I'm a producer by nature – someone who loves bringing ideas to life. Sticker art, for me, is about getting up in the streets and sharing your creations with other artists. I put up stickers daily and actively trade with artists worldwide. There's also a weird therapeutic aspect to it, too – from meticulously cataloging each sticker I receive to documenting them in photographs.  It feels really good to know where all of my stickers are and where they come from.

My path to recognition mirrors the DIY spirit of many in the community – put your work out there, then keep doing it. OVER and OVER.  So, my journey involves a lot of sticking, trading, and embracing the vibrant community that makes sticker art so special. It's a testament to the fact that in this ever-changing world, the thrill of getting your art out there is a timeless adventure.

Your character is a penguin. What's the origin of this character, and what inspired you to create it?

Chilly Willy is an old school cartoon from the 1950's.  The original character was created by director Paul Smith for the Walter Lantz studio in 1953, and then developed further by Tex Avery.  In my opinion, Chilly Willy is the best cartoon character ever created.  He is a cute little penguin who lives in an igloo.  Chilly Willy has also been a nickname of mine throughout my life and it only makes sense to call the studio that I make art in Chilly Willy's Igloo.  I love the idea of a little skateboarding penguin being active and participating in today's hip hop, pop culture, and street art scenes.  

Where were you born and raised? Did this have an impact on your art or your choice of character?

I was born in Houston, TX but formative years were spent in Little Rock, AR.  Folklore and storytelling were a big part of my childhood.  I heard tons of stories about ghosts, tornadoes, hillbillies, outlaws, and freaks at a very young age.  I loved it!  I would often try to draw cartoons of how these characters and tall tales looked in my head.  I've always appreciated and embraced this exaggerated cartoony style.  Also, it's so dang hot in Texas that at least pretending I work out of an igloo provides some mental relief.

Was there a particular experience in your life that motivated you to pursue an artistic career?

The spark for my artistic journey ignited at a humble kitchen table in high school, surrounded by the mischievous duo of Mikey and Ricky. Drawing together for the sheer joy of it, we crafted our own world of creativity, fueled by laughter and the shared pursuit of artistic expression. These informal sessions soon evolved into weekend escapades of making movies and short films just for kicks. Little did I know that these playful endeavors would catch the discerning eye of a film professor, who later became a crucial mentor. In 2002, he nudged me toward a path of storytelling, suggesting that I turn my passion into a career. Since that pivotal moment, I've been working in the arts and entertainment realm, forever indebted to those carefree kitchen table collaborations that set the stage for my artistic wanderings.

How did the idea of directing a film come about? What were the main challenges you faced during the film's production?

The idea of directing "Sticker Movie" stemmed from my fascination with subcultures that often go misunderstood or overlooked. As a dedicated sticker artist, I felt deeply connected to this ephemeral world of art that deserved to be documented and preserved.

The spark for "Sticker Movie" ignited during a serendipitous sticker trade with Agent5Smith. As we chatted over Instagram, I discovered that she had written a feature film, "Strive," starring Danny Glover. I couldn't resist pitching the idea of a documentary about the world of sticker art to her. Almost instantly, it became clear – we were the dream team for "Sticker Movie." Agent not only possessed exceptional writing skills but also proved to be an outstanding producer with an extensive network in the sticker community.

Once production began, the challenges of producing an international documentary started revealing themselves. Coordinating interviews, video footage, and artwork from artists scattered across the globe added a layer of complexity. The logistics of bringing together diverse voices, languages, and time zones presented its fair share of hurdles. Yet, it was precisely this global perspective that enriched the documentary, capturing the essence of sticker art as a worldwide phenomenon.

Navigating through these challenges, Agent and I embarked on a journey that felt truly magical. The process of collecting stories, insights, and art from artists worldwide became an integral part of what makes "Sticker Movie" a unique and authentic exploration of the sticker art subculture.

What do you expect after the release of this film? What are your future goals or projects related to the art world?

After the release of "Sticker Movie," I expect it to serve as the inaugural step in a broader exploration of sticker culture on a global scale. Beyond the excitement of a theatrical run and streaming distribution, my vision extends towards transforming this project into a documentary series. The goal is to immerse ourselves in the vibrant world of street art, connecting with artists and providing viewers with a firsthand look at the dynamic street art scenes in some of the greatest cities on the planet.

I believe there's an untapped richness in the stories and perspectives of sticker artists worldwide, and I want to continue shining a spotlight on their creativity. The documentary series would serve as a platform to delve deeper into the diverse cultures and expressions within the global street art community. By showcasing the unique narratives and techniques of artists from various corners of the world, we aim to celebrate the universal appeal and individuality of this art form.

In essence, my future goals involve creating a compelling and insightful series that not only entertains but also educates audiences about the incredible diversity and significance of street art. This envisioned journey aims to contribute to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the global tapestry of artistic expression.

How do you envision the future of sticker art? What trends or developments do you think are emerging in this field?

Envisioning the future of sticker art is an exciting prospect, considering its dynamic and ever-evolving nature. As technology, social dynamics, and artistic influences continue to shape our world, several trends and developments are likely to influence the trajectory of sticker art:

Digital Integration: With the increasing prevalence of augmented reality (AR) and other digital technologies, we may see sticker art embracing more interactive and digital elements. This includes AR-enhanced stickers that come to life through smartphone apps, creating a fusion of physical and digital art.  Check out Urban Ninja Squadron! 

Sustainability Focus: As global consciousness about environmental issues grows, there is a shift towards eco-friendly and sustainable sticker materials. Artists may explore new ways to create impactful art while minimizing their ecological footprint.

Collaborative Platforms: Sticker art has a strong sense of community, and future trends may involve collaborative platforms that bring artists together for joint projects. Online spaces and apps could facilitate virtual collaborations, allowing artists from different parts of the world to contribute to a shared sticker masterpiece.

Inclusive Representation: Sticker art has the potential to tell diverse stories. The future may see a greater emphasis on inclusivity, with artists using stickers to represent underrepresented communities, cultures, and perspectives.

Artivism: Sticker art has often been a medium for social and political commentary. This trend is likely to continue, with sticker artists using their creations to address pressing social issues, advocate for change, and contribute to larger conversations.

Innovation in Design: Artists will likely continue pushing the boundaries of sticker design, experimenting with new techniques, styles, and materials. The fusion of traditional and contemporary art forms may lead to innovative and visually stunning sticker creations.

Global Exchange: The interconnected nature of our world allows for a global exchange of ideas and influences. Sticker art may increasingly draw inspiration from diverse cultures, creating a rich tapestry of global artistic expression.

Ultimately, the future of sticker art holds endless possibilities as artists continue to explore, innovate, and find new ways to make their mark on the world, one adhesive creation at a time.

Which artists have had the most significant influence on your artistic journey? Are there specific works or styles that have had a significant impact on you?

Listing the artists who've influenced me feels like trying to count all the stickers in NYC – an overwhelming task that might take a lifetime, and I'd probably lose track halfway through. It's like trying to choose a favorite penguin in a colony of Chilly Willys – impossible! Honestly, every sticker I get in a trade is like Christmas morning, but instead of socks, I unwrap creativity. So, to all the sticker-slinging wizards out there, thanks for turning my artistic journey into a kaleidoscopic adventure!

Can you share some of your most meaningful collaborations with other artists and how they contributed to your artistic growth?

Collaborations have been instrumental in my artistic journey, with each partnership holding a unique place in my heart. While I cherish every collaboration, those with artists beyond the borders of the U.S. hold a particularly special significance. Engaging with creatives from diverse cultural backgrounds has not only expanded my artistic horizons but has also enriched my understanding of different perspectives and artistic techniques. These collaborations act as a creative cross-pollination, infusing my work with a global flair and fostering a sense of unity within the international artistic community. The exchange of ideas and techniques has been a catalyst for my artistic growth, pushing me to explore new avenues and challenge my creative boundaries. Through these collaborations, I've come to appreciate the universal language of sticker art that transcends geographical boundaries, creating a tapestry of shared creativity that continues to inspire and shape my artistic evolution.

What techniques and materials do you primarily use in your artwork, especially in the creation of stickers?

I use stencils, stamps, spray paint, glitter pens, a shit ton of sharpies, and a ridiculous number of markers.  I really use anything I can get my hands on.  Even watercolors and crayons.  I like to experiment and learn from what Bob Ross would call happy accidents.

How do you balance your work as a sticker artist and your involvement in filmmaking?

Let's be real here – balancing my sticker art obsession with filmmaking is like juggling knives while riding a unicycle. I can't say I'm an expert at it; stickers tend to win the tug-of-war for my attention. But I'm not a total slacker; I compensate by hanging out with my kids, who are unwittingly recruited into my sticker army. Mornings are sacred sticker-drawing sessions before school, and we embark on epic sticker walks together. The cherry on top? They've caught the film bug too, so our quality family time involves crafting bizarre stop-motion masterpieces. It's a delicate dance of stickers, video art, and parenting.

What is the story or message you aim to convey through your art and characters?

My art is like a whimsical intervention in the concrete jungle – a beacon of levity and positivity amidst the chaos. I mean, who can resist the infectious charm of Chilly Willy the penguin? That little guy could probably diffuse a street fight just by waddling around. The world needs more belly laughs and fewer furrowed brows. So, I revel in the paradox of injecting something as innocuous as a cheerful penguin into the bustling streets, where everyone's either speed-walking like they're on a mission to save the world or frowning like they just discovered they're out of coffee. In the U.S., we've got this whole "us versus them" drama unfolding, and it's like, dude, let's smoke a fatty boombalatty blunt and bring it down a notch. My art is a gentle nudge, a reminder that underneath the hustle, the fury, and the blues, we're all just stardust. So why not chuckle at a cartoon penguin and realize, hey, we're in this circus called life side by side, whether we like it or not!

Could you describe your creative process when developing new sticker designs or characters?

Usually a gang run will light a fire under my ass to create a new design.  I also love jumping on 228 collabs and adding Chilly Willy and incorporating features or techniques from other characters.  It's a great way to experiment, and is super fun to watch these collabs grow over time.

Are there any upcoming exhibitions, events, or projects that your fans and followers can look forward?

Oh yeah.  Lots and lots of stuff on the radar. Including Sticker Movie's East Coast Premiere in January.  London, Cali, Japan, and Germany screenings in 2024 as well. Make sure to follow me @cwi_fb or @stickermovie for all the latest and greatest.  If you hate social media, I ain't mad at ya, check out stickermovie.com