Artist Interview: Mr. Laylo
Interview By: Aarusha Pushparajah
Mr. Laylo (Eduardo Diaz) is a Chicago born artist who has become known in the art scene of his hometown as well as internationally. He began his career in 2014 and specializes in gray scale realism incorporating influences of urban graffiti.
While in Chicago, Mr. Laylo became influenced by the style of hip pop which became entrenched into graffiti art that inspired his work as an artist. As he progressed, his art career led to the opening of “Mr.Laylo’s Artistry Compay” and he became a freelance artist while residing in Toronto. He has painted in many states in America and continues to showcase his talent across the border in Toronto.
AADN:
How did you get into the arts? What piqued your interest in it?
Mr. Laylo:
I got involved in the arts from watching graffiti videos. Growing up in an urban area right outside Chicago, I was prone to seeing a lot of graffiti on the streets. Murals that captured a concept or theme, would look totally amazing to me.
AADN:
How has the road to become an artist been for you? Are there challenges you have experienced?
Mr. Laylo:
The road to becoming an artist was tough, to say the least. I would agree to do quality work for dirt cheap to acquire more clients. A simple word of mouth marketing technique. The challenge was getting my artistic identity out in the art world.
AADN:
What gravitated you towards using graffiti art as an influence in your work? Where do you draw inspiration from for the subjects of your pieces?
Mr. Laylo:
Graffiti was my genesis. In my neighbourhood, it was either become a gang member or do graffiti and get into the hip hop culture. I would say, the hip hop culture gravitated and inspired my graffiti style in my work. The inspiration behind some of my canvases comes from mere nostalgia. Growing up I would see graffiti burners and always wanted to paint one as a kid.
AADN:
Are there any future projects you are looking forward to that you would like to share?
Mr. Laylo:
I have this community project coming up on Oct.1st I am going to be revitalizing a bridge wall in Brampton, Ontario. In association with Peel Police and the ResQ youth organization. I will be teaching 6-8 kids, ages from 12-17, the fundamentals of using a spray can. then I am painting a mural with a message behind it.
AADN:
Is there any part of being an artist that you enjoy the most?
Mr. Laylo:
As an artist, what I enjoy the most is being done with big scale projects. I get to rest for a few and work on my own stuff.
AADN:
What was the process of creating Mr. Laylo’s Artistry Company like for you?
Mr. Laylo:
I felt legitimate when I created my own art company. The process was smooth. With my talent, I can consider myself a freelance artist. Basically, painting anything that the client requires.
Editor: Ezel Urul
