Introducing Brandon Schafer, a talented artist within the community
In this article, we turn our attention to Brandon Schafer, a local artist who inspires through his art.
Tell us a little about yourself, where your from, grew up, what H.S./College you attended, etc.
I grew up in Webster, New York and went to Webster Schroeder high school. I then attended Monroe community college for a short time before dropping out.
What inspired you to get into art? Early experiences worth sharing?
I was inspired to get into art because I was never an academic person, but I have always been a creative person since I was a child. Sketching was my first introduction to the art scene and I have been expanding ever since. When I was younger, I was selected to take a class at the memorial art gallery. The teacher had noticed my sketching work, the class taught dimensions and shading which helped expand my knowledge of the art world.
I only recently got into spray paint art last summer, while searching for a creative outlet during the start of the pandemic. I came across spray paint videos on youtube and felt instantly connected with this style of art. My favorite aspect of spraypaint art is the artistic freedom that comes with this style. Using a little bit of imagination and patience, you can turn any canvas into a masterpiece.
Talk about a time where you have faced adversity/conflict and have triumphed.
Out of all the struggles I’ve faced in my life, the one that stands out the most to me is when I lost my job for six months. I felt very lost and struggled to find the presence of hope. It was through my art however, that I was able to overcome this struggle. The impact that I had on people made me realize that although money is essential to life, it’s not everything. To be able to lift someone’s mood just with a piece of art is a beautiful feeling.
What do you believe sets you apart from other artists?
What sets me apart from other artists is how I express myself on the canvases, I often find ways to mix words and pictures to create a psychedelic display of colors. A lot of my art has a heavy Spanish influence, and I also have a lot of inspiration from traditional Asian designs. Often displayed with bold and bright reds and oranges. Reaching across cultures to impact people through art is a beautiful thing.
I would consider my style ever-evolving, I like to add fresh content whenever I can. as an artist, I believe complacency is where we lose creativity.
Do you have other interests or hobbies?
I make music on the side as well although I haven’t been very active with my craft lately. Art has been the main focus of my life. I focus primarily on Hip Hop and R&B styles with my music interests as well, but I am looking to expand. For the summer, I plan on releasing new music.
Any projects you have out or or currently working on?
I’ve been quiet with my work lately. Ideally, I want to start a whole series of Japanese-inspired art pieces. I often use kanji in my work and I love the bright colors traditional Japanese art utilizes to make everything pop. My goal for this year is to learn how to put people in my paintings for a more in-depth display for onlookers and passersby.
Where would you like to see yourself in 5 years?
In my five years, I see myself with a bigger audience for my work and I eventually want to go international with my art as well, having a gallery display in a museum, is something I can see happening too.
As my knowledge of the art world grows, I also want to move into the fashion industry with my clothing brand "Elevated Arts" which is going to be a unique mix of street art and high fashion. Expansion is key at this moment and I believe the future holds some exciting opportunities for me.
What advice can you give in regards to individuals looking to enter your line of work?
To all my fellow artists still on the grind waiting for a big break (as a person in the same boat myself) I would say that patience is necessary to grow as an artist. When you first start your journey a lot of people aren’t going to support you, but you can’t let your doubts and failures get the best of you. Don’t budge on your prices too, as the artist you are in the talent pool and your craft is not free. You work hard for your art and you have perfected your craft, so never sell yourself short for a quick buck.
How can we follow along in your journey? YouTube? Social media? Sites?
To learn more about my art journey, follow me on Instagram @B___soul or you can visit my website at https://elevated-arts.squarespace.com/
