story / JORDAN BLAKEMAN
California native David Flores has made his stamp across the world from Dallas and Tokyo to Mickey Mouse and Basquiat. His career began in the skateboarding industry and today stretches to murals across the globe, limited edition vinyl toys, and more. He is best known for his self-coined “Stained Glass” style. In 2011 he did a collaboration with photographer Phil Stern where he injected his stylized aesthetic on notable icons such as James Dean, Marilyn Monroe, Marlon Brando, and Frank Sinatra. David is one of over 75 artists participating in the Branded Arts charity event on October 25th at the TCL Chinese Theatre to benefit Vista Del Mar Child and Family Services. Tickets can be purchased here or at the door.
Why are you drawn to the arts?
Pun intended? I’m not necessarily drawn to the arts as much as I am born to the arts. I would also add that at some point in an artist’s career it becomes a lifestyle just like anything else, If you’re a lawyer all your friends are lawyers or in a related field. If you’re a cop all your friends are cops. After a while it’s hard to get out.
You’re participating in a charity event that will help disadvantaged youth. Can you talk a little about your experience with art as a kid?
My experience with art as a kid growing up with a very art inclined mother even though she won’t admit it. She is a very artistic woman. I would love to draw as a kid and draw the things I would see. Getting kicked out of school for drawing really naughty things. The support I received came mostly from my peers.
You’re a teacher in addition to being an artist. In what ways do you think art is necessary for one’s development?
I think early on it could be seen as a challenge and a problem to be solved. Problem solving, color theory, aesthetics, composition. All these things that you gain through an artist prospective also help lots of other related things in your life.
You’re well-known for your murals and other large artworks. If you have to pick a place you’d love to stamp with your work, where would it be?
I would love to put my artwork on the wall at Parco Museum in Tokyo, Japan, but we just did that this year. So, the Eiffel Tower, definitely space, maybe on the space shuttle.
