Brilliantly Abstract: Apexer
Watching San Francisco-based street artist Apexer work is nothing short of entrancing. Forget every pre-conceived notion you have about a man with a can of spray paint — Apexer’s smooth, tightly controlled strokes give the impression that the spray nozzle is simply an extension of his arm, completely second-nature. To say he makes it look easy is an understatement. But don’t let that fool you — the complexity of his intricate, sweeping designs belies the true depth of his prowess (and the densely layered nature of his process). With such an arresting style and knack for the abstract, it’s easy to see why he’s enjoyed wild success not only with the local community, but also on a global, commercial scale — his resumé reads like a hip young Creative’s wish list, with clients ranging from Spotify and VICE to Fiat and Moët-Hennessey. We spoke with Apexer to learn more about his creative headspace, his origins, and what’s inspiring him right now.
How did you find yourself drawn to street art? Was there a particular moment when you knew that was what you wanted to do?
I was really young — it was third grade when I first encountered street art. It was everywhere in San Francisco then. It wasn’t until I was 26 that I knew that it was my purpose to create and nothing else.
Your work has an incredible level of precision, within a medium that has historically incorporated imperfection. Where does the inspiration for that come from?
I always want to do the best I can, so I always experiment with my craft. Also, my education in architecture and graphic design has informed my practice — the “form follows function” mindset.
There’s almost a meditative quality to a lot of your pieces. Is there a specific mindset that you find yourself returning to when you’re designing and/or executing these pieces?
Constant meditation is a mindset that I try to stay in always. When I’m painting I like to listen to music. I let the music entertain me and let my subconscious do the art-making, connecting to a deeper source.
As San Francisco undergoes rapid change, how do you see you art evolving (or not) as a response?
I draw inspiration from life: architecture, nature, people. So as this city changes, I change with it… Kind of like, “What came first, the chicken or the egg”? (Laughs)
Is there a specific corner of the city you find yourself returning to when you’re looking for inspiration?
Downtown. Deep in the concrete jungle, under the tall buildings.
Who is someone outside of your field who is currently inspiring you and/or informing your work?
[Architect] Zaha Hadid and [professional surfer] Grant Twiggy Baker, just to name two. People who push the boundaries.
What would you be doing if you weren’t a street artist?
Some form of artistic expression — [my creativity] can’t stay trapped inside of me. Maybe a full-time clothing designer?
You also work fairly inter-disciplinarily—how does your work with sculpture inform or affect your 2D work?
It’s great to work in both 2D and 3D. I get to use different sides of my brain to work out similar ideas. It’s more of my work and knowledge of design programs that affects my 2D work. I look at my paintings in layers as if it’s in an Adobe product — This allows me to add a lot of color to my work.
What is your process for selecting the environment for your pieces? Is there a reason you create certain works in certain locations?
Yes and no — I pick some areas for the challenge of the space, to see how my work will look and relate to people. I also let the environment pick me. I live by the flow.
Words: Emily Bihl, Photography: Gabrielle Humphrey
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