Frank's Realm
How did this painting begin?
"It originally started off as a digital project concept. I was listening to one of my favorites, Pyramids, at the time and the idea emerged. The sincere picturesque elements in Pyramids makes it more than a song to me— it's a mythical audio journey. So, I attempted to reflect that in my digital collage and illustration, but it felt flat in comparison to what Ocean embodies. So, that's when I started transfiguring it into the painting."
(original rough blueprint)
What medium and style was used?
"So, I started it with acrylic simply because I'm more familiar it. I also was capturing Frank in a more realistic way at the beginning, so I like to use acrylics for that. But slowly, I got frustrated trying to perfect details and let my art flow through oil paints. I've mixed them before and knew it was a bad idea because it took a very long time to dry! But I was very happy with the result. I guess I would say it's like an abstract/modern-day take on post Impressionism. I love to distort forms and emphasize geometric shapes for expressive effect!"
Why did you pick the title "Frank's Realm?"
"I always choose my titles at the end. Usually, I like to use irony or messages in titles. I was going to title it, "Frank's Ocean," but I have another idea for that one! I simply wanted to use something more broad and open to interpretation. His realm is a state of mind, another "life." And those who listen to his naked words in his music would say the same."
What symbols did you use?
"Moon River" (2018) is used for the background. Of course, the pyramids represent "Pyramids" (2012). The E30 is for "Nostalgia, Ultra" (2011). On the BMW, heavenly donuts are for "Provider" (2017). Inside the car is the alternative cover for "Blonde" (2016). The ocean depicts "Swim Good" (2011). The yellow box in the water is for his single "DHL" (2019). And then to portray Frank himself, I used my favorite album cover, "Blonde" (2016). I definitely could've added more symbols looking back at my blueprint, but I think it would've been too busy. I didn't want it to be like a "Where's Waldo" picture... I think its perfect in this way."
(unfinished digital illustration)
How long did it take to complete?
"I'm one of those people who loses track of time when I'm in my zone creating, which can be a bad thing... So, it's hard to tell. I didn't work on it everyday, but I definitely put in a lot of hours. I started it January 1, 2020, and I finished it the 4th of February. It was officially completed with varnish and a few cleanups on February 18, 2020."
How did you react to all the love?
"I feel like some artists, including myself, aren't transparent enough when it comes to showing how much work they put into their craft. Many don't see it this way, but the process can sometimes weigh on you, especially since art is so personal. So, when this went viral, now at 1.9 million views via Twitter, I was beyond happy and proud of myself. I always create for own pleasure and growth, and for others to praise me solely on that is rewarding in itself. I nearly cried. Thank you."