Posted by Trustpigs October 25, 2012

You might've been exposed to the simple-looking art of Scott C. at some point and, perhaps, you dismissed it due to it's cartoonish nature. Give it another glance… look at the expressive posing, the subtle jests, the over-ridding cuteness. While I fully admit that his style isn't for everyone, his work — especially that collected in his new The Great Showdowns hardcover book (Gallery1988 & Titan Books) — speak to the inner cultural geek we all possess. We were lucky enough to do a quick interview with Scott C., delving into his work and inspirations…

Clutter: I know your work from a couple of Gallery1988 group shows and your Cotton Candy Machine exhibit earlier this year, but can you tell me a bit about yourself and your artistic history?

Scott C.: Sure. I've been showing in galleries since about 2007 at Gallery1988 and Gallery Nucleus and a number of other spots. My paintings are usually on the adorable tip, little characters enjoying themselves or making each other uncomfortable. Normal everyday things with these guys. I like painting mummies and dragons a lot. I have also been making comics and video games for many years and most recently children's picture books. I guess the most notable of these projects include the games Psychonauts and Brutal Legend, in which I art directed and created visual concepts for. And the web comic Double Fine Action Comics is a series that i carried on a number of years. Zombie In Love was the first kids book that i made pictures for and that came out last year.

Clutter: What attracted you to making these simple but witty images?

Scott C.: I like simple situations and interactions between people. In real life and in my paintings. I like painting little moments that people can piece together themselves and create their own narratives from. With the Showdowns, I wanted to create easy little moments that could be enjoyed like sweet nostalgic snacks.

Clutter: Are you a big movie buff? Is that why all The Great Showdowns in the book are from films?

Scott C.: I am a huge fan of films, but probably about as much as the next guy. Films are just the rule for this series of Showdowns. If i opened up the can of worms to create showdowns from things like TV or video games, I think it would get pretty overwhelming for me and the people! But perhaps somewhere down the line, i can start more Showdowns series of different styles. I like making rules for myself and themes for projects. It focuses things in a good way.

Clutter: Where — other than film — do you find inspiration?

Scott C.: I find inspiration from everything all around me. I find it from talking to people, sitting on benches in the park, riding the subway.  I find it from bookstores and television. I find it from music and comedy shows.  I find inspiration from everything imaginable.

Clutter: What's your 'Clutter'?

Scott C.: My clutter?  You mean like what is cluttering up my house?  Books mostly.  Too many books and not enough shelves.  Sometimes clothes are on the floor.

          

The Great Showdowns hardcover book is now available to purchase at all finer retailers for $14.95 each.

 

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