Montana LOOKBOOK #08 / 2023

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
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