Erik Ross is an Art of Austin artist.
Erik Ross is a Texas native and recognized visual artist, currently in Austin. His established style is comprised of abstract line work, free flowing movement, and hard line structure illustrated with acrylics, aerosol, and various inks. His metaphorical portrait work is inspired by his awareness of the figurative masks worn in today’s society and the unveiling of his own ever-changing “mask”.
Since childhood his passion for abstract pen line work or “doodles” has been ever present. Having no formal background in the arts has encouraged a deep exploration and unique development of style and skill from years of practice. Evolving from his life experiences Ross’s style has matured into various mediums including large scale murals, original canvas work, and custom wood cut-outs. Ross identifies painting as a therapeutic outlet that serves as an escape from life’s challenges and tribulations. Art serves as the rawest form of expression, exposing one’s inner world as a means to connect with the outside world. The vibrant energy and integrated abstract designs seen in his work is a representation that everything is relatable to perspective. Each work of art is a reminder that all things are dictated and defined by each individual’s consciousness and perception.
Introducing Erik Ross!
AoA – How long have you been in Austin and how did you find your way here?
Erik – I have lived here for 2 years now and a job brought me here. I was stuck in a job I hated and started to look elsewhere and Austin was the place I had in my sights. Fortunately, I found a company called SprATX that welcomed me with open arms and plopped me right in the middle of the art community.
AoA – When did you realize that you were an artist?
Erik – I have drawn for as long as I could remember. It wasn’t until about 2010 that I actually started selling work but if you consider drawing pictures for the girls I was crushing on in middle school I would say then haha.
AoA – Can you speak to your art training?
Erik – I have no formal art background. Art 1 freshman year in high school is the last art class I have taken.
AoA – Where do you derive inspiration from?
Erik – My core inspiration comes from the figurative masks that we wear in society but I do have to say it is hard not to be inspired about the people around me here in the Austin art community. I am surrounded by so many talented people that just by seeing them push themselves and put in the work inspires me to get in the studio.
AoA – Can you talk a little about your creative processes?
Erik – My creative process consist of A LOT of doodles. I typically like doing this with pen so I have to commit to my lines and just dive into them. Doing this helps me get loose and get in my flow state where I dont really think and just do. From there, I will go back and cherry pick the designs I like and further develop them.
AoA – Big question. What do you feel the role of art is in the world?
Erik – Art plays so many roles in this world it is mind blowing. It gives us an opportunity to see in the minds of others. Also, if art did not exist my home would be the saddest place ever lol.
AoA – Do you have any feelings towards Digital Art versus traditional mediums?
Erik – Not really. I have very little digital art experience but definitely still prefer pen or spray paint over all.
AoA – Who are some artists that you look to?
Erik – Mine are the people I have met here. Being able to talk with them and get that instant feedback is hard to beat. To list a few: ER., Skele, Matt Tru, Deathfox and many, many more.
AoA – Its interesting you didn’t mention Griffin, I think he is loosley affiliated with AoA, do you know his work?
Erik – Ummmmmmmm….
AoA – If you could own 1 piece from a living artist, who would it be?
Erik – Alex Grey hands down. Dude is a wiiiiizard!
AoA – What else do you enjoy besides making art?
Erik – I love spending time with my friends and family. Outside of that I dig anything competitive, live music, and hitting the greenbelt. Shoutout to all the disc golfers out there haha!
AoA – Where can we find your work? Do you have any shows planned for the future?
Erik – Infinite Monkey Theorem & Lustre Pearl East
AoA – Super cool. Any final advice for all the artists reading out there?
Erik – Ain’t nothing to it but to do it.
AoA – You right. Thanks for talking with us today and letting the people get to know you a little more on that personal level. We love you and appreciate your work and hustle brother!
Connect with Erik!