Montana LOOKBOOK #08 / 2023

Mural by SATR titled

Mural by SATR titled “Whisper” in Mannheim, Germany, Alsenweg 64 for STADT.WAND.KUNST @stadtwandkunst 60 Interview/Artist in focus Satr

MC Which foreign artists are commonly known in the Chinese graffiti community or who has painted or exhibited there? SATR There are many foreign artists who are well-known or have painted or exhibited in China. Some of them are Cantwo and Sofles, who are idols for most graffiti writers because of their skills and styles. In recent years, some foreign artists have also held exhibitions in Shanghai, such as Nychos and Tristan Eaton. There are also other foreign artists who have visited or collaborated with Chinese graffiti artists, such as Futura, Cope2, Invader, Vhils, and many more. China is becoming a more open and attractive place for graffiti culture and exchange. MC Forgive me if this sounds uninformed, but are there any elements of censorship or restriction from government bodies in regard to graffiti writing? SATR No, it doesn’t sound uninformed. It’s a reasonable question. If you are creating on the street, you probably won’t have any problem. No one will care about your creative theme, unless you criticize the government or something like that. Then you might get in trouble. (I’ve only heard about it). If you are invited by a Chinese institution to participate in an art festival, then it becomes a public art project. We also roughly know the bottom line of the government agencies. Don’t touch some topics like pornography, anti-government, death, etc. Then your creation won’t be hindered. Because we don’t want to involve the inviting party in these troublesome things. MC What is the most difficult experience you have had during your time as an artist? SATR The most difficult experience I have had as an artist was painting a 17-story high wall in Russia. It was my first time to challenge myself to paint on such a tall building. At first, I felt like I messed up, and the weather was very cold. We were always interrupted by the weather conditions. But luckily, I pushed myself to the limit and finished this task that seemed impossible to me at that time. It was a very rewarding and memorable experience. MC What is the most memorable experience you have had as an artist? SATR The most memorable experience I have had as an artist was at the Peinture Fraîche Festival in France. When I finished my work and signed my name, the audience behind me spontaneously applauded. It didn’t matter if they were children, drivers, or passers-by. They all celebrated the completion of my work together. That shocking scene is still hard for me to forget. MC Are there any artists who you are inspired by or aspire to be like? SATR I have two favorite artists, one is Jaw.cooper, who is a painter and illustrator who creates stunning and surreal images of animals and nature. The other is Gian Galang, who is an artist and illustrator who specializes in images of martial arts and action sports. Their works often make me feel amazed and have a special mood in them. And they are always doing a lot of new experiments, using different media and combining them with their own works. This really impresses me a lot. MC If you had the choice of any place on earth to live and paint, where would it be and why? SATR A few months ago, I would have chosen Los Angeles because there were many graffiti artists I knew there, and I had never been there before. I would have loved to stay for a while to experience the culture and vibe. However, after extensively traveling in Europe, I can now confidently say that France, Paris, or any other city in the country would be my definitive choice for a more permanent residence. The friendliness and open-mindedness of the people there leave a lasting impression. Every time I painted in France, I received a warm welcome that filled my heart. Moreover, I have made great friends with artists in France, so whenever I’m there, it feels like my second home. It is fair to say that SATR exceeds the expectations of a classic graffiti writing career. With a style that is as unique as it is informed, it is refreshing to hear how grounded and considered her practice is. If having your heart in the right place is anything to go by, we can only assume that SATR will go a long way. Something that the audience, the creative world, and the natural world can benefit from. Interview/Artist in focus Satr 61