Kamau Momar
It’s hard to determine if Kamau is mysterious or laid-back. His online appearance consists of a modest amount of visuals, accompanied by little to no words. Recordings of skateboard tricks are mixed with anime illustrations, collages of historical events and high-tech 3D renderings. This sequence might seem random at first, but it’s all there for a reason. A keen observer might discover that reason by exploring Kamau’s artwork: innocent figures, placed in front of collages that take us back to ignorant historical moments. It can also be found in his latest animation project, titled Black Anime. Kamau had a nonchalant chat with Coeval, bringing us up to speed to his latest tricks and works.
Hi Kamau, how are things in the City of Angels at the moment?
Between school, life, and trying to stay creative, I think things have been good.
Your artwork often features anime-like characters. What drew you to this style?
This comes from my love for anime. I've been watching it since I was a kid, and still do today. A bulk of the inspiration for my illustrations and animation comes mainly from old school anime.
In a fair few of your works; your characters sit, stand or walk before background that collages together media featuring some of history’s most racist events. Is it safe to say your work is political?
I think so, a lot of my art touches on politics and race. I Like to collage historical events into what i do in order to bring light to subjects or ideals that i think are important today. On the other hand there are far too many events for one to speak on them all.
One work struck me in particular. A purple eyed - possibly stoned - figure, observing an inverted picture of the KKK. Could you tell me a bit more about this artwork?
Ha i do like the possibly stoned. If i had to describe it, it’d say take in his characteristic. Possibly high but more or less unphased, cute, and surrounded by American history . I like to play on the concept of ignorance and innocence with the cuteness of my characters.
Taking things to another dimension, you also make some pretty impressive 3D renderings. How does that process work?
Thank you. I enrolled in school to study 3-D about 2 years ago. They gave me a laptop and thats where it all started. My process always begins in my sketchbook and note writing, then ill convert it.
How do you feel about Instagram as a medium for artists?
It has its pros and cons, but speaking strictly on art i think it’s positive overall. It allows us to stay connected and share work.
What’s next for you, do you have anything exciting in store?
More animating and I’m working on a project called “BLACK ANIME”. It’s me and my brother (Jacuzzi Han) who works in design and creative direction. The name is a blatant representation of what it is and should be. Bringing Black Anime to the digital and physical realm.
courtesy KAMAU MOMAR
interview MARJOLIJN OOSTERMEIJER
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