paul elia

PAUL ELIA ANSWERS OUR TOP 5:

what medium(s) do you work in?
digital artist, illustrator, photographer


what question do you wish would be asked in an interview and how would you answer it?
My all time favourite question – “You inherit 5 million dollars the same day aliens land on the earth and say they’re going to blow it up in 2 days. What are you going to do with the money?” - I’d fly everyone I know out to some crazy location and have an end of the world party!


why art?
ever since I was a kid, art has been the way I express myself, the way I relate to others around me and the way I digest the experiences I have.


who or what inspires you?
Lately what inspires me is going for walks through urban decay. I like the tension between it looking really ugly, but also beautiful and surreal at the same time. There is something emotionally striking to me about buildings that look like they’ve been in a fight and have black eyes and split lips. This is very evident in my latest series. And I am always inspired by lots of music and other artists.


any wisdom you'd like to share about living as an artist?
Be confident and don’t be afraid of letting a little of your business side out too.


HAMILTON STRIP is a new illustrated series by Paul Elia depicting Hamilton cityscapes. Entire city blocks (or strips) are recreated in heavy tones of black, white and gray.

The largest print is 13ft. long, allowing the viewer to literally walk down the block. Focusing on downtown and central Hamilton neighbourhoods, these drawings are meant to highlight the surreal contrast between the industrial history of the city and the residential development around it.

Source: republished with permission
paul elia via www.wrecovery