I have been an artist for as long as I can remember. I’ve always had a fondness for skeletons and devils. I remember as a kid, my grandmother gave me a batman watch and a rubber devil. I endowed my devil with super powers and loved playing with him. As a kid I used to draw devil faces on homework, not all of the teachers were okay with this. Even my dad once asked me “when are you going to stop being so weird?” He doesn’t remember this now, and insists that he supported me in all my endeavors, I find it’s best to let him have that belief. 

I was lucky in that I had a job that I enjoyed, but they hired a boss who hated me. I had already started doing my artwork on the side and selling hand painted glassware at farmers’ markets in california, but my partner at the time and I discussed it, and I quit my job and took on artwork full time. Eventually we went from doing festivals to doing wholesale shows and being carried in several museum and gift stores across the US. I am now in just a couple of shops. After my partner, Chris, passed away, it was hard for me to keep everything going full force. I’ve managed to keep things going, on a smaller scale.

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What are some of the traditional ways of celebrating Day of the Dead, and how have these traditions inspired your art?

Day of the Dead is a holiday that I’ve known about for as long as I can recall. I have always had a fondness for skulls and devils, but after Chris died, my skulls took on a more realistic tone than the ones that came before. Early on they were more like interpretations of skulls, rather than depictions of actual skulls. Once Chris was diagnosed with cancer things changed for me. I did one of him and his dog, called Mejores Amigos (“best friends”). I wanted to honor him while he was still here with me. After he passed away I took a year off from illustrating, but the first one I did was for him and it was going to be a black and while illustration. He loved the black and white ones that I had done. But after I was finished with it, I knew that it needed some grey for depth. Then, I decided it could use a little bit of yellow, then a lot of pink. I eventually decided that Chris would forgive me for adding so much color to it. I called it Ramillete del Luto (“mourning bouquet”). For a couple of years after that, my illustrations were significantly more realistic than before. After a couple of years, the playfulness returned and while the skulls were still more realistic than before, they were also having a pretty good time. 

Ramillete del Luto (“Mourning Bouquet”)

Many people are scared of death, and do everything they can to avoid thinking about it. I find it fascinating that in your work, you are able to focus on death in a way that is joyful and life affirming. How are you able to approach such a potentially dark subject in an uplifting way?

Day of the Dead is November 2nd, but it is a holiday I celebrate all year long. I don’t think a day goes by that I don’t think of someone who made an impact on my life and is now, at least physically dead. Relatives, friends, icons, pets. I think about them all, from Karen Carpenter to my grandmother, from Phantom, a cat we found and tried to save but didn’t make it, to Snowflake, a family dog that we were all sure would outlive the family-out of spite if nothing else, to Kelly, a dear friend who died of an AIDS related illness many years ago, and to Chris who passed away in 2010. 

These beings, any many more, are always haunting my thoughts (I mean that in a good way) and sometimes I find myself talking out loud to them, or laughing at something they did or said years ago. I find that sometimes I am saddened by the loss of their physical presence, but I am always glad for the time, brief as it may have been, that I spent with my dear family and friends, and my relationship with them is as real to me as any relationship with those breathing beings who are also celebrated parts of my life.

Mejores Amigos (“Best Friends”)

Can you share some of the most meaningful images you have created over the years?

Mejores Amigos (best friends) is one I did to honor Chris and his dog Penny. I did this after he was diagnosed because I wanted to honor him while he was still here with me.

Ramillete del Luto (mourning bouquet) is the first illustration I did after Chris passed away. It was originally supposed to be black and white, but pink and yellow snuck in there.

Sueño (dream) is probably my favorite illustration that I’ve ever done. People love it, after they hear the story behind it, they hate it until they hear the story. It is based on a dream I had about a dozen years ago. Here is the story of the dream:

I am standing in a rickety boat on a stormy sea. I can hear the thunder and see the lighting all around us. There is a man in a red suit.

A nice suit. Very red. He binds my legs together and my arms to my sides. He then lifts me over his shoulders and tosses me in the shark infested waters.

I felt myself die, but it wasn’t what I expected. I remember becoming part of the fish that ate me, and as they were eaten by larger fish I felt myself become part of them. Inversely as I was broken down to the tiniest elements possible I found that I became the sea.

As the water evaporated to form new clouds I felt myself become sky.

As the sky turned dark and rained down I felt myself become rain.

As the rain landed on the ground I felt myself become earth.

And as the earth fed the roots of the trees and plants I felt myself become whole. I was never ending. A constant and continuing evolution into something new and something old, into something that’s always existed.

Unlike most dreams this one stayed as I woke. I knew it was just a dream, but then I thought to myself “what makes you so sure this isn’t a dream as well?”

Sueño (“Dream”)

How has your work changed over the years, and what are your goals as an artist for the future?

I think my work has changed to better reflect who I am. For several years I worked on illustrations that were requested by folks. They wanted to see themselves. I still do this, but I also make it a priority to do what I want to see. To honor the ones who meant something to me. To release something in me. I think that my artwork, which is centered around death, is a way to help folks deal with a subject that most people ignore until they must face it. It is meant to show that no matter how much we feel alone when facing death, ours or someone else’s, we aren’t really alone. It has been faced by everyone who was here before us and it will be faced by everyone who is here now. It is the most “in common” thing we have, regardless of where you are on the political spectrum, religious spectrum, or any spectrum you use to divide the universe. By facing it now, it doesn’t become the enemy at our door, it becomes the crazy uncle at the wedding. The uncle that no one wants to talk to, but he’s always there. On that day when it’s time for us to go, death will be that crazy uncle. He’s always been there and we always avoided him as much as we could. But when he’s the only other one in the room with us, we’ll be glad for his company. 

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Around the age of ten I visited the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago. There were pieces in there that I felt an indescribable connection with, and I knew my place in the world at that moment.

I’ve dabbled in many mediums, but sculpture is what came naturally to me because I always inherently knew what needed to be worked on or “fixed”, without much down time spent overthinking.

Buy D. Edward Murray merch from our online store >>>

How have you evolved as an artist, and what are your current artistic goals?

I think my work has gotten more more “fun” and less “serious” over time.

I have 3 primary goals as an artist at the moment: Some medium to large scale contemporary sculptures are well into development, which will be a surprise when they are released. I’m also working on new lines of gift-sized, small batch produced artwork such as sculpted jewelry boxes. Large public works for downtown Austin are a long term goal.

Your recent face pot sculptures feature expressive human faces, crowned by living succulent plants. What drew you to succulents?

They look like plants from an alien planet, and they come in such strange and beautiful forms. They are living sculptures; some look like chubby babies or “baby toes”, others look like things out of a Dr. Seuss book, deep sea creatures, or flowers.

Buy D. Edward Murray merch from our online store >>>

Which pieces are you most proud of as an artist, and what makes them special?

The more unique my path is, the more pride I have in it. Materials, techniques, concepts…. There is a ton of trial and error of course, but that’s what does it for me.

How do you approach creating new work?

New ideas have never been a problem—deciding on which to pursue is another matter. I try find an overlap between what inspires me, and what the people of my community seem to want, and then I get weird.   

Around the age of ten I visited the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago. There were pieces in there that I felt an indescribable connection with, and I knew my place in the world at that moment.

I’ve dabbled in many mediums, but sculpture is what came naturally to me because I always inherently knew what needed to be worked on or “fixed”, without much down time spent overthinking.

Buy D. Edward Murray merch from our online store >>>

How have you evolved as an artist, and what are your current artistic goals?

I think my work has gotten more more “fun” and less “serious” over time.

I have 3 primary goals as an artist at the moment: Some medium to large scale contemporary sculptures are well into development, which will be a surprise when they are released. I’m also working on new lines of gift-sized, small batch produced artwork such as sculpted jewelry boxes. Large public works for downtown Austin are a long term goal.

Your recent face pot sculptures feature expressive human faces, crowned by living succulent plants. What drew you to succulents?

They look like plants from an alien planet, and they come in such strange and beautiful forms. They are living sculptures; some look like chubby babies or “baby toes”, others look like things out of a Dr. Seuss book, deep sea creatures, or flowers.

Buy D. Edward Murray merch from our online store >>>

Which pieces are you most proud of as an artist, and what makes them special?

The more unique my path is, the more pride I have in it. Materials, techniques, concepts…. There is a ton of trial and error of course, but that’s what does it for me.

How do you approach creating new work?

New ideas have never been a problem—deciding on which to pursue is another matter. I try find an overlap between what inspires me, and what the people of my community seem to want, and then I get weird.   

I would describe my style as playfully introspective storybook art for the inner child. The themes are fantastical, but there is a deeper tone behind the subject matter.

Do you listen to music while you work? What kind of spaces do you prefer working in?

I love to listen to music while I work – and I will binge listen my favorite songs! But mostly I listen to astrology lectures. It’s a vast and complicated subject that keeps my mind entertained and distracted while I zone into the art. You want to distract your mind a little when making art, otherwise it’s too easy to overthink what you’re doing and stop the flow.

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How do you stay motivated and inspired?

I’m still trying to figure that out! I feel the most motivated when I’m on top of mundane chores and daily life-tasks. When I have the space, time, and energy to relax into what I’m doing.

I guess the answer is I don’t stay motivated or inspired. It’s a slow roll up a high hill. But I don’t worry about it. Once the inspiration strikes, I have to go with it. It can be hard to do anything else!

How do you approach creating new work?

My favorite way to create new work is by accident. When I sit down to sketch with no agenda – when i let myself play. But sometimes I’m working with deadlines and I have to gear myself up to be creative. Set the stage – clean my work zone, get the right music, the right beverage, the right amount of time without interruption. It’s a slow build, but once I get into the flow of making art, it’s really hard to make me stop.

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Do you have any thoughts or advice for aspiring artists?

Do what you love. If you love drawing motorcycles, then draw motorcycles. Don’t let someone who draws farm animals dictate your terms. Even if he is your art teacher. Oh, yeah – and fuck art school. Just find a teacher who draws motorcycles.

What’s ahead for you in 2020?

I’m working on an oracle card deck with the former president of the American Tarot Society, Arwen Lynch-Poe. (Www.tarotbyarwen.com) Arwen has written six decks including The Field Guide to Garden Dragon and will be writing the book that goes with the Oracle Card Deck. Follow our IG for updates!

Instagram Links

• eya claire (@eyaclaire) • Instagram photos and videos
• Arwen Lynch (@tarotbyarwen) • Instagram photos and videos

* Photo Credits: The Music Room TX

Lucy’s Fried Chicken Revival

The self proclaimed “tastiest day party of them all,” Lucy’s on South Congress will be serving up cold brews and fried chicken at their tenth annual free party. The event runs from noon to 7 PM, Wednesday through Sunday; with five solid days of good music booked, this neighborhood party might make you forgot all about the real South by Southwest. Featured bands include Sweet Crude, Fastball, The Sexton Show, Barfield, and Western Youth with Jaimee Harris.

Full schedule: https://www.lucysfriedchicken.com/music-events/revival/

South x San Jose

Another neighborhood tradition, South x San Jose is returning for it’s twenty first year. The free event will be held “rain or shine” on March 18 through 21 in the Hotel San José and Jo’s parking lot. While musical acts have not yet been announced, the event is sure to feature plenty of great live music along with local vendors. 

More info: https://www.sanjosehotel.com/regular-event/south-by-san-jose/

Day Parties at the Continental

The historic Continental Club has been running on South Congress since it opened way back in 1955, and has seen numerous legendary performances over the years. Although evenings are reserved for official SXSW showcases, the good news is that they are hosting several free unofficial day parties during SXSW week which are sure to be a good time. Check out Rare Clover day party with Whitney Rose on March 17, Patricia Vonne’s Latinapalooza with Mariachi Las Coronelas on March 18, Raul Malo day party with Whitney Rose on March 19, AMG day party with Brendan Kelly on March 20, and Mojo’s Mayhem on March 21 with Mojo Nixon & the Toadliquors.

Full schedule: https://continentalclub.com/austin/ 

• Let us know how you heard about the party and get a 10% discount!
• Take selfies with Sam Grey Horse, the legendary horseback riding Santa Claus! [Sam arrives at 5 PM]
• Enjoy complimentary champagne and beer!
• Make your voice heard at the Airing of Grievances!
• Defeat your enemies engaging in Feats of Strength!
• Shoot dank pics in our magical photo booth!

We got local artists
From across Austin town
& a good vibes DJ
Bringing fresh funky sounds
Plus a 10% discount
For all yall jokerz & clownz

• That’s right–let us know how you heard about the party and get a 10% discount!
• Check out one of a kind products from our local artists, including Zen Soap and Lazer Beam!
• Shake your booty to funk, soul, old school hiphop, and house!
• Make fun of your friends’ awkward body postures!
• Demonstrate your mastery of the FIVE ELEMENTS OF HIPHOP!

Who: Prima Dora, Sam Grey Horse, Local Artists
What: Holiday Party
When: Thursday, December 19, 1 – 7 PM [Sam arrives at 5PM]
Where: 1912 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704

 Get full details on the Austin Lock Wall here! >>>

Check out our collection of fun Austin souvenirs here >>>

1. “Hi, How Are You?”, 408 W 21st St

The first mural on our tour is the oldest and most famous. Created by legendary DIY musician Daniel Johnston in 1993, this mural features the quirky character Jeremiah the Frog. The image also graced the cover of one of Johnston’s early albums, and became famous when Kurt Cobain wore a “Hi, how are you?” shirt to the MTV music awards.

2. You’re My Butter Half, 2000 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd

A snapshot in front of the “Butter half” mural is a favorite of romantic couples on vacation in Austin. Located at the United Way for Greater Austin Building, this mural was created by Austin designer John Rockwell in 2012.

3. Historic Sixth Street, 6th & I-35

Austin’s Sixth Street has long been a destination for party people and live music fans, and a group picture at this mural is a great prelude to your night out. You may not remember what happened on Dirty Sixth when you wake up hungover in your hotel, but at least you’ll have a fun photo to commemorate your night.

4. Greetings from Austin, Capitol of Texas, 1720 S 1st St

This mural, done in the style of a retro postcard, was painted back in 1998. Created by Todd Sanders and Rory Skagen, it is located on the side of Roadhouse Relics. 

5. Willie for President, 1423 S Congress Ave.

A new Austin favorite, the “Willie for President” mural was originally created by Jacqui Oakley, Erick Montes, and Joe Swec for the 2016 iteration of SXSW (South by Southwest). If you’re in the mood for NY-style pizza, be sure to pop around the corner and check out Homeslice Pizza.

6. I Love You So Much, 1300 S. Congress Ave.

Created in 2010 by Austin musician Amy Cook, a stop at Jo’s Coffee for a photo with this mural is mandatory for anyone visiting SoCo. Although the mural was originally a touching message to Amy’s partner, the tasty breakfast tacos served up at Jo’s Coffee make it equally appropriate as a love letter to the most important food group: TACOS!

7. Love from Austin, 1912 S. Congress Ave.

Our final mural graces the side of Prima Dora itself, and was created by local artist Charlie Copp of Lymbo Clothing in 2016. After you’ve taken the perfect instagram photo, be sure to come inside to say hello and peruse our fine collection of wonderful and wacky wares.

Check out our collection of fun Austin souvenirs here >>>

We created the Austin Locks art installation to provide visitors with a fun way to celebrate special trips, important events, and relationship milestones. The project’s original inspiration comes from the Pont des Arts bridge over the river Seine in Paris, where in recent years lovers would carve their initials into locks, hang them from the bridge, and throw away the keys. This romantic gesture was said to represent the couple’s commitment.

In the Austin Locks installation, visitors can customize the locks with sharpies before adding them to the ever growing and organically evolving lock sculpture. For big events, Lazer Beam also offers custom lock decoration and engraving.

Our new installation is located on the south wall of Birds Barbershop, facing Charlie Copp’s “Love from Austin” mural, which graces the north side of Prima Dora. As a bonus, the installation includes a photo dock to help visitors capture the perfect “Love from Austin” shot.