Name | Ox-Alien |
Country of Residence | the Netherlands |
IG | @Oxalien |
Website | https://www.oxalien.com/ |
Ox-Alien is one of the most-known street artists in the Netherlands, and his impact goes even beyond that. His colorful and creative art has been brightening the streets for years. It’s not just the alien, but the entire setting of his artworks that captivates me. Seeing his character everywhere inspired me to create one of my own. I’m excited to feature Ox-Alien in the Octulos Interviews, and I think you’ll really enjoy hearing about his journey.
Let's start off with a beer. What beer would you say is your favorite?
My favorite beer will be Leffe Blond, a nice Belgium beer with 6,6% of Alcohol.
You are an inspiration to many, but where did your journey in art began?
I started in the late eighties, tagging my name on everything that came by, especially in places along the train tracks and places up high. Around the year 2000, I switched to 'street art' and created a pink flying head with one eye as an 'O' and one eye as an 'X.' Because of this, some people on the streets called it 'Ox-Alien,' and that's how the name was born.
What’s the story behind the name: Ox-Alien ?
It's a character I started painting in the year 2004, so yeah, it's been 20 years already. At first, he had ears and an earring, but now he has horns, so no arms because some people think its 2 arms he put up in the air...ha..ha
How did you end up in the graffiti scene ?
When i was a youngster I always used to steal something from a shop. So in this train models shop, I stole some small spray cans and I had to try them straight away, I think it was the year 1986.
What inspired you to become an artist, and how did you develop your artistic skills?
I just grew into it. The plan wasn't to become an artist; the plan was simply to get my stuff out there on the streets for people to enjoy.
If you would have to describe your artistic style, what would you say?
My style is cartoonish, colorful and cute with a little evil touch.
Can you share some of your favorite or most significant artistic projects or pieces you've created?
I think the time we were in St. Petersburg (Russia) with our whole collective (Lastplak) was crazy, we painted like 10 walls in 2 weeks time. We were on the news and people recognized us in the subway from the tv, that was quit something
What brands and tools do you use for your artwork and what do you recommend?
I use everything, Markers, ink, wall paint, all different kind off spray-paint as long as it gets the job done.
What do you like the most about what you do ?
I like the freestyle walls on spots that i just found the best, just pimping a spot that was first a spot nobody even noticed and now there is a colorful painting that will find peoples eyes
Are there any artist you look up to now or in your earlier stage as an artist?
Yes a guy like PEZ from Barcelona for example, he has a similar style and paints big walls all over the world, I really like that.
Everyone has their way of working. How do you approach the creative process, from conceptualization to completion?
For small walls, it's easy. I don't make a sketch or plan; I just freestyle with the paint I have with me at the moment. A big wall is different—I first make a sketch and think about the colors beforehand. Either way, I enjoy both.
How do you stay motivated and overcome creative blocks or challenges in your work?
I'm always motivated to paint. The only thing that could stop me from painting for a week would be shitty weather.
"Maybe some large Ox-Alien sculptures in museums in the future—time will tell."
Not every art, is for everyone. How do you handle critiques or feedback on your work, both positive and negative?
I don't mind too much what other people think about my work. It's nice if people like it, but if they don't, they can look the other way—it's all good.
The most thing I like to see in an artist is progress. Do you have any other long-term artistic goals for the future?
Of course, it would be nice to keep making a living from my art, so I think big. Maybe some large Ox-Alien sculptures in museums in the future—time will tell.
Some artists feel they have a deeper meaning regarding their artwork. Does your art have a deeper meaning to you?
Sometimes I leave some messages in my work, but mainly it's just about having fun with bright colors.
Do you have anything else you would like to share with the world?
Nope
To see more of his artworks, visit his website:
https://www.oxalien.com/