that support initiatives that I value; human rights, the environment, equality, education etc.”
What is your next project? “I’ll be traveling to Taiwan for a corporate project and then after that to Panama City for the inaugural Bienal del Sur en Panama, a new international art exhibition featuring some of the best street – and other artists from around the world. I am very excited to have been invited and I’m looking forward to creating a unique interactive piece for the exhibition.”
So, you work all over the world? “Yes I do. I’ve painted in 25 countries thus far and have loved every minute of it. India is one of my favourite places on the planet and I’ve had the good fortune of travelling there numerous times to street paint. It’s been a lot of fun.”
Did you ever make a painting that was sealed to make it permanent? “Yes, I have made some works with paint on surfaces
for more permanent installations; however, permanent is relative because they lasted for a month rather than a few days. I hope to make some more permanent works in the future.”
If I wanted to become a street artist, what should I do to get things started? “I’d say take a look at what other artists have done or are doing to get inspired. Flex those imaginative muscles and come up with your own unique vision. Find a decent piece of sidewalk or street to draw on, where people will see the work, and then get some ‘hands-on’ practice working with chalk pastels on the pavement. Practice is the best way to learn. This art form is very forgiving so you really have nothing to lose. I’ve got a free ‘How To’ video on my website for anyone interested in a basic 3D approach which I think would be helpful to a beginner.”
Want to see more of Tracy’s work? Or do you want to get started as a 3D street artist yourself? Check Tracy’s site: www.tracyleestum.com. • cannatalk|17