Artist Keyani Watkins warps art into his own pieces

By Vincent Rives / Staff Writer

Miami, the cultural melting pot of a metropolis, has been going through an art renaissance within the past few years, in due part to the international success of Art Basel and the recent growth of of the community of Wynwood.

To further continue the growth of the arts and culture, Downtown Miami held their third annual Art Days Festival, featuring tons of local artists, exhibits, tours and workshops. One particular artist features hip-hop with a nostalgic 90’s cartoon twist. Meet Keyani Watkins, a visual artist studying at the Miami International University formerly known as Art Institute in Downtown Miami, who was recently a part of an exhibit showcase during Art Days at the Vizcayne in Downtown on Friday, Sept. 19. I was able to sit down with Mr. Watkins to dig deeper into the artist. Keyani Art Days-2

Q: Earlier you mentioned to me that you’re attending MIU; so first things first, how do you like art school?

A: It’s cool. They teach you to really sharpen your skills; whether it’s drawing, painting or whatever your art field is. It’s funny because, in my first studio class, my teacher called my art boring. I used to do a lot of regular portrait pieces. He said it was good, but not interesting. I needed to find my own style because basic portraiture would not make me stand out in the very competitive art world. It was frustrating, but I see how it pushed me to make my art better.

Q: Earlier as well you had touched on the fact that you live down south, by Richmond Heights. How’s that drive to Downtown throughout the week?

A: I don’t drive at the moment. I use public transportation. I take the bus to the Metrorail and get on the Metro mover to school. It’s a long ride, but I enjoy the alone time. It’s sort of peaceful to me.

Q: Wow, that’s a pretty long commute, I’m assuming you’re glued to your iPod. Would you say this has a strong influence on your work?

A: Yes, music always influences me. I usually draw musicians because of this.

Q: Ok cool, well I love your style man, It’s original. How did you come up with this?

A: Well, after being frustrated with not having my own style, I did some research on Instagram. I found a really humble artist, now a good friend of mine, and I reached out to him. I really liked his work and I told him I wanted to use it and flip it in my own style. He was cool with it so from that day on I’ve been doing this whole pop art thing, which I love.

Q: That’s crazy. Who would you say was your biggest inspiration in reference to your style?

A: My inspirations include Banksy and Warhol, of course, but also the artists I found on Instagram who have a similar style, like Maykol (@doubleletterm) and Keel (@namxkeel). Their work is awesome. Check them out!

Q: I’m definitely gonna have to look into that after this interview. So let me ask you, with the recent emergence of the cultural arts in Miami, what separates you from the other thousands of artists in South Florida?

A: Well I believe that I’m pretty much the same as any other hard working artist. My work ethic and self-discipline is what makes me stand out. Being that this is my only job right now, I create plenty of time for it. I’m constantly drawing new pieces; I draw at least one new piece every single day. I usually draw it at night or I won’t be able to sleep well. My ideas will have a “Project X” party in my head if they don’t come out! (Laughs) I HAVE to draw!

Q: Haha yeah man the last thing your creativity needs is a lack of sleep. Well congrats on your work and I’m excited to see what else is yet to come.  How can people see your work or get in contact with you?

A: For custom pieces, I can be contacted by e-mail at Keyaniwatkins@ymail.com and Instagram (@Youngblvckgxfted) as well.

 

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