Pen2Paper of the Month:
Boulovani
About
Boulovani:
Boulovani was born and raised in Holly Springs, Mississippi by his grandmother. Growing up, watching his Grandmother create her own handmade fashions, Boulovani became very interested in design. With her help, he created his first sketches and honed his skills in design and art. After high school, he studied fashion design and illustration at Memphis College of Art and the University of Mississippi.
Currently, Boulovani is a featured artist for the BETJ network and Clik Magazine. He also has his own t-shirt line and sells his art and prints.
A
few questions for Boulovani:
1. What does creating art provide for you mentally, spiritually, or otherwise?
Creating art is an outlet for me. It’s a way of escaping from everyday life and going to a place where I can create whatever I like, in whatever form. I accept it as my gift from God. Being an artist for me is not neccesarily in your skill or your technique. Its in your Creative perception, how you arrive at the finished product.
2. The subjects of your artwork are often recording artists. Who are some of your favorite artists, and give us a few words about what makes them your favorite.
I have several favorite artists. Usually they are not the normal mainstream, "hot" artists that people gravitate towards. I enjoy listening to music that’s not widely known. Some of my favorite singers are Oleta Adams, Mica Paris, Sade, Phyllis Hyman, Wendy Moten, Lisa Stansfield, and Patrice Rushen.
Lately, I have been enjoying the music of Elisabeth Withers, Robin Thicke and Amos Lee.
3.
Who are some visual artists or writers who inspire you as an artist?
I have always loved the writings of Langston Hughes, the lush, deep quality of his writing. He is my favorite writer ever. I’m greatly influenced by designers such as Patrick Kelly and Erte' and artists Romare Bearden and Jean-Michel Basquiat.