Cory Bilicko
Managing Editor
Where were you born? Los Angeles
Where do you live now? Los Angeles
How old are you? 31 years of age
What job(s) do you have? Engineer
Are you in school? Yes, English major
What medium(s) do you work in? Canvas and acrylic paint
Where do you work? Studio at home
How would you characterize your art work overall?
I would characterize it as art for the masses— art for thought.
A few of your paintings feature smiley-faced figures in purple Haz-Mat-type suits. What’s the story behind that?
Since I was a kid, I always felt like I lived in a police state. Cops were infamous for pulling up to you with a gun, so I paint law enforcement now as I see them— thought police smiling at your face.
You make a lot of stickers of your work. Tell me about that and how it came to be.
It started as a way to have people recognize me. I began by hand-making each one using the labels from the post office, clear tape and markers. It used to take five to 10 minutes to make each sticker, sometimes longer. I would laminate each one with the tape [as] protection from the weather. Now, I found an inexpensive printing company that I send my designs to. I use the stickers as a way to get recognized, and it seems to be effective.
How do you feel when people ask you to explain the meaning of your art?
I still feel odd when asked the question because I don’t want to come off as pretentious or condescending. I like people to create their own interpretation of what my art is to them and hence to be better enjoyment of the art piece they just acquired.
What do you try to achieve with your art?
To make people smile while thinking of the art piece at the same time.
My past, present and everyday life inspires me to create what I experience.
Is there a kind of art or an artist whom you don’t particularly like?
No, I actually enjoy all forms of art and artist. Everyone has different styles but that is what makes us us.
Describe what the scene is like when you are making art.
When I am painting in my studio/garage, it is a juxtaposition of music and movies playing at all hours of the night, which easily get me going.
Torrez will be participating in the Chocolate and Art show at KGB Studios, 1640 N. Spring St. in Los Angeles, on Friday, Dec. 5 and Saturday, Dec. 6 from 7pm to 2am both days. To view more of Torrez’s work, visit etsy.com/shop/TheGreedyBastards.
