Interview by Raechel Hurd

Vincent Paixao is a practicing artist in Harrisonburg, VA. He’s lived in the Shenandoah Valley for 15+ years and has created posters for bands such as: Tapes n’ Tapes, Ra Ra Riot, The Decemberists, and TV On The Radio. Fresh off his debut show at the Blue Nile with Christ Fosterberil; I asked him to share his thoughts on the local art community. I sat down at the artistic watering hole of Harrisonburg, a.k.a the Artful Dodger Coffeehouse and Cocktail Lounge to ask him about his experience and get some insight on his creative process.

Where are you from? Where have you lived?

I’m originally from Waynesboro, VA but I’ve lived in many different places all around the Valley.

How old are you?

I’m 27.

Occupation?

Barista at the Artful Dodger in Harrisonburg, VA.

Did you attend any art school?

Blue Ridge Community College from 2007-2008. 

Why did you decide to leave?

Personally, I hated the classroom setting. It felt stifling because I was forced to restructure my creative process. I’ve been doing art since I was a little kid, and it was difficult to be told that I was creating art “wrong;” I guess classical training just isn’t for me. It is for some people though.

Where you do you draw inspiration from?

I love Charlie Harper’s work, as well as Basil Wolverton’s. I take inspiration from the imagery around me, as well as stuff from my head. I like to use symbols that represent my anxiety and internal struggles.

What struggles do you face as an artist? Both internally, and externally marketing your self?

A lot of times I deal with artists block; droughts caused by internal stress and anxiety. Sometimes I have a low opinion of my artwork and superficial feelings that limit creativity. Marketing myself is still something I’m figuring out. It’s a skill that I’m learning as I continue to create art that I can showcase.

What type of commissions/work/shows have you had?

I made some posters for The Jefferson Theater in Charlottesville, VA. I loved the flexibility they gave me: I made whatever I wanted, and the posters appealed to a wide demographic. It was a nice change from making personal art; most people can get something out of the band posters.

How do you feel about the art community in Harrisonburg?

It’s Awesome! Everyone is really supportive of each other’s work. There are a lot of really talented artists in Harrisonburg, and they all work together to make great shows together. There really are no downsides to the Harrisonburg art community, if anything,

the large pool of talent makes me want to create more work.

What mediums to do you like to work with? Are there any mediums you’d like to experiment with?

Pencil and speedball ink. I’d like to try some experimental photography; I have a sweet camera that my dad gave me!

How often do you create art?

2-3 times a week, continuously if the piece is going in the right direction.

Have you ever gone art crazy?

I’ve gone on art binges—all-nighters that are usually rewarding. Pulling an art marathon with fellow artists can be nice, working with friends in a positive, constructive environment helps generate feedback and constructive criticism.

What is the typical size of a finished piece?

The largest pieces I’ve done are 18”x24” and can be as small as 6”x10”.

What is your creative process?

It depends. Sometimes I have a set way of creating a piece; especially when I have something planned out in my head. I’ll sketch out the piece and then ink it out. Other times, the piece evolves as I create it. I’ll add and manipulate the piece as I go. When I get to a point where it feels done, I stop I guess. Sometimes I’ll add details until the piece says everything it needs to.

How long have you been showing your art?

A short time, only 2 months. My most recent show was at the Blue Nile (Harrisonburg, VA) in May 2012.

How was the response to that show? What did you gain from it?

The response was definitely positive. It gave me incentive to show my work in other galleries. I loved showing my work with friends. It’s nice to work with people that I’m comfortable with; maybe I’ll have a solo show later down the road.

Is there anything you would like to pursue more?

Ink drawings, illustrations. Photography- would like to try experimental film

Time for some name dropping: what are some of your favorite local artists?

Chris Foster Baril, I did a joint show with him at the Blue Nile. I also like Thomas Dean (Charlottesville, VA) and Cyrus Fisher (Fishersville, VA).

What do you think of Larkin Arts opening in August?

This town NEEDS a specialty arts and supplies shop like nobody’s business. I’m stoked.