LIGHTWORK ANIYAH MONAE

JS: One thing I noticed about your work is your technique, both painting and digitally. Your skills stand out very much its clear you take your craft very seriously. When did that attention to detail and finesse begin for you?

AM:It began when I knew what it was that made me want to get up everyday. I just know for sure that Art is my purpose.. you know, Something I’m supposed to be doing. so I always want to make sure that I execute that putting my all into everything that I create and do it to the highest level that I know I can .

JS: Some of your work is hip-hop inspired; your Busta Rhymes, Spitta and DOOM are some of your illest pieces. What role does hip-hop play in your life and in your art?

AM: Growing up my parents would always play r&b/hip hop around the house/during car rides and I’ve always had my MP3 player in my ears to the highest volume growing up so that’s where my love for music started. I enjoy painting my favorite artists. It’s my way of saying I appreciate them for sharing their gifts to the world, especially when I can gain knowledge from them .

JS: Aight, tell us about “FRESH MEAT.”

AM: Ever since I was younger I’ve always been curious as to what they were serving in our grocery stores and what it was that we were actually putting into our bodies. As I grew older I discovered that there are certain chemicals in meats that may cause cancer,mucus and a number Of diseases if too much of it is consumed “FRESH MEAT” was inspired by MF DOOMs record “Fig Leaf Bi-Carbonate” describing how the FDA approves foods that are poisonous to us and how we should leave it alone if we are not 100% sure what’s in it .

JS: Given the range you showcase in your paintings: what runs in your mind while you’re working on a piece and when it’s finished? Where in the process do you find the fulfillment?

AM:The beautiful thing about this one is that nothing runs through my mind when I’m creating, that’s why I love it so much. it’s my chance to free my mind of thinking and let it flow out through my hands. My fulfillment comes when I Finally finish a piece, it’s rewarding to see a canvas go from nothing to something. I have to take a moment sometimes to look back on my work like yea i did that and will continue to ! Every time.