Grey Coutts is an artist, currently based in Los Angeles, California. He earned a degree in Graphic Design from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth in 2013. Often incorporates his signature style of “the drip”; a technique that solely uses the force of gravity. Mainly using acrylic, spray paint, and collage materials.
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We see that you studied graphic design and took fine art classes at the same time. How did learning both design and art at once influence your style?
I went to design school not knowing anything about graphic design. All I knew was that I did not want to go to a trade school, I was kind of good at art, so I leaped. I believe the fusion of learning helped me develop my unique style. I learned how to balance and create a working structure with design but at the same time, I was being expressively free and experimenting with paint and collage. I ended up fusing both practices and the outcome was pretty cool! I still do it today.
Why did you make the move from Boston to LA? Does the creativity in LA align with your goals and what you were seeking when you leaped?
I needed a change. I tried my hardest to fit in living in Boston, but I just was not happy. To me, LA represented a fresh start with unlimited potential to do and become whatever I wanted.
So, after a few years of trying to get there, I finally did it, and I love it. There is so much opportunity in LA and I love the fact that almost everyone is out here chasing their goals. I have met a lot of cool people and continue to make great connections every day.
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Can you tell us about the process of your Energy Portraits?
The “Energy Portraits” are something fairly new. I am in tune with all things energy and have discovered that tapping into others’ energy is something that I can do quite easily. With the “Energy Portraits,” I am taking the energy and emotion that I am feeling from the person (if they are present in the room) or I hold them in my mind when I am creating if they are not. The message and color unfold as I go, all I need to do is trust my gut. In the end, we have an interpretation of them on the canvas. I then can explain what it means and give them a reading of sorts. It’s really fun.
How has all your art influenced your work in the music industry?
I love creating for the music industry because there is so much freedom of expression. When musicians make music, they are doing exactly what I do with art, just in a different format. It’s exciting to listen to their songs and then bring their music to life visually. When I make music videos or do set designs for photoshoots, I always try to spice it up with something unique. It might be a painted backdrop or a painted mannequin. Anything to get that little bit of artsy flavor.
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Is there a possibility that you’ll jump into another industry besides music and art?
Currently, I do work in the graphic design industry helping all types of business. One other area I’m pretty passionate about is raising awareness for animal abuse. Hopefully one day I will be able to use my skill to help in that area.
What do you love about Canvy?
Canvy makes my life so much easier. It’s amazing. Photographing art on a wall and trying to achieve perfect lighting is no easy task! Canvy makes it simple and professional. The white wall and the staged rooms help my clients see how the art could fit into their own homes.
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Do you have any plans on exploring other art mediums in the future?
I’m currently trying my best to understand NFT’s. I feel like I have no choice but to throw my hat in the game. I have one collection that is almost ready to be posted online.
What are your favorite moments when creating art?
I think my favorite part of creating is how I must surrender to the craft. There is only so much control you can have, and the rest is just up to the moment. I feel a rush especially when I am doing a live performance.
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Find Grey Coutts and his artwork here.
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