Wes Lang, a contemporary artist from Los Angeles, shares his captivating journey blending pop culture with themes of freedom and mortality. He talks about how his childhood shaped his artistic identity, influenced by musicians and his father's record store. Lang delves into the psychological dimensions of creativity, discussing overcoming personal anxieties and embracing authenticity. He reflects on the evolving art world, the balance of integrity with cultural shifts, and transformative experiences that have shaped his unique vision.
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Quick takeaways
The podcast reveals that true artistic success is defined by passion and dedication rather than wealth and fame.
Wes Lang's childhood experiences and family background significantly influenced his artistic identity and drive for creativity.
The speaker shares that engaging in personalized artistic practices serves as a meditative tool for managing anxiety and fostering personal growth.
Deep dives
The Reality of Success in the Music Industry
The speaker reflects on their childhood experiences with musicians who worked mundane jobs, showcasing a more realistic perspective on success. Growing up near Red Bank, New Jersey, surrounded by aspiring musicians, the speaker learned that not all artists live glamorous lives as perceived in youth. They highlight that true success is not merely measured by wealth or fame but rather by the passion and dedication to create music. This revelation emphasizes that creating music is an achievement in itself, regardless of external validation.
Creative Foundations in Early Life
An early passion for creativity is discussed, with vivid memories of drawing and collecting images as a child. The speaker describes a formative moment in first grade when a simple sticker ignited a lifelong fascination with art and design. These creative impulses were nurtured in an idyllic suburban environment despite feelings of being an outcast at school. Such experiences shaped their identity and fueled an ongoing love for art and storytelling.
The Influence of Family on Artistic Development
The speaker shares insights into their family background, revealing a creative lineage that informed their artistic journey. Their mother’s career as an interior designer and their father’s work in printing provided a stable foundation for creativity. However, despite this supportive home life, there were conflicting expectations regarding pursuing a career in the arts. Ultimately, the deeply ingrained creative culture of their family imparted significant influence on their decision to follow their artistic passion.
Overcoming Personal Struggles with Anxiety
The speaker candidly recounts experiences of struggling with anxiety, particularly during periods of financial success. Despite achieving recognition in their career, feelings of self-doubt and panic persisted, which were often intertwined with their creative process. They explored how these challenges were tied to a lack of self-worth that plagued them, complicating their perspective on success and happiness. Through this reflection, the speaker illuminates the importance of mental health in the creative industries.
The Transformative Power of Artistic Practice
The importance of personalized artistic practice as a form of meditation and self-discovery is emphasized by the speaker. They illustrate how engaging in creativity allows for a deep connection to themselves and helps manage anxiety. Recent works have emerged from a desire to convey positivity and gratitude, forging a distinct narrative style. This ongoing artistic journey demonstrates the power of art not just as a profession, but as a vehicle for personal growth and healing.
Wes Lang is a contemporary artist based in Los Angeles. His work is best recognized through symbols including skulls, horses, and the indigenous American, as he aims to convey themes of freedom, mortality, and the American Dream. Lang draws inspiration from his heroes–fallen country music icons and jazz musicians–to tap into the rugged spirit of post-pop Americana and inspire a sense of opportunity and mythic adventure. Lang’s artistic reach includes creating pieces for Kanye West and the Grateful Dead. Though his main medium is canvas and paper, he has also produced work using cast bronze, collage, fabric, and hotel stationary, with his pieces held in prestigious international collections like the MoMA, Damien Hirst’s Murderme collection, and an upcoming exhibition at Damien Hirst’s Newport Street Gallery. Represented by Almine Rech worldwide and V1 Gallery in Copenhagen, Lang continues to push boundaries with his unique blend of pop culture and existential themes.
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