Painter Kelsey Brookes invites Computerlove into his beach side studio in San Diego.

By Matthew Newton, Senior Editor

Kelsey Brookes used to be a scientist. Before settling into life as a prolific painter whose work has been exhibited throughout the United States and Europe, he worked tracking viruses for the U.S. government. In fact, Brookes jokingly blames his raw, anxious form of art on America's university system which, as he puts it, "refuses to teach its scientists how to draw."

According to Brookes, his figurative paintings draw influence from Hindu and Buddhist deities, exotic animals, sex, and rustic American quilts. And in sublime bursts of color, the 31-year-old artist uses his figurative style to capture the ghostly nuances of the natural world. In the latest installment of Creative Craft, Kelsey Brookes invites Computerlove into his beach side studio in San Diego.

How much of an influence does environment have on your work process? I see that you live near the beach, that must have some sway in your work?

I believe that the environment does play a role in my process, though it is largely a subconscious influence. If nothing else I find myself more motivated to work if the sun is out and the birds are chirping.

What's an average workday like for you?

Wake up, eat breakfast, check the surf, check my email, start my favorite podcast, book on tape, or music, start painting, lunch, back to painting, yoga or run depending on the day, make dinner, and sleep.

It should be noted that anywhere with in this schedule I may insert a surf session depending on the wind, waves, and tide that day.

Your living space and work space are intertwined. Is this good for you? Bad?

The house I live in has a "granny flat," which is essentially a large garage that has been finished off into a one-bedroom guesthouse. I used to live there but have since converted it into my studio. I love it. Unfortunately it will be coming to an end shortly as I will be moving to a studio with taller ceilings, wider walls, and larger doors.

What are the challenges and rewards of being a working artist?

The most challenging parts are the most rewarding.

The look and feel of your paintings are really fresh. Who and/or what would you say influences your work?

Animals, colors, National Public Radio, science news, literature, poetry, death, hallucination, spirituality.

What are you working on right now, and what can folks expect to see from you in the near future?

I am working on my next show at Quint Contemporary Art in November. Full on every day from the time the sun comes up until the sun goes down at night I am working on this show. I'm excited.

Related links
Kelsey Brookes
Blog
New Image Art
Quint Contemporary Art
Pictures On Walls
Lazarides Gallery