Chicago artist In-Zo recently did a showing in Chicago titled Kid’n Us. His work is vibrant and a nod to many of our favorite animated and movie characters of our childhood. We spoke with In-Zo about his artwork, what inspires him and why it is important to tap into your inner child.
When did you know you wanted to be an artist?
I started drawing and tracing Garfield the cat when I was 1 and 2 years old. I grew a passion for the arts because I came from a family of multi-dimensional artists. My great grandmother’s brother was also the head cartoonist of Walt Disney, so I guess you can say art is a part of my DNA.
Talk about your process as an artist.
I create all my art digital before I paint it. I pre-design all my art l. I guess because if I don’t like something I can change it before I paint it. I also have a team of artists that are part of my company. That helps me with my process, so that we can flood the market with art.
What inspired the works from the most recent show?
I wanted to showcase the things that resonated with my childhood and to unlock the inner child in everyone. That’s why I named my show Kid’n Us to unlock the “kid in us.”
Why is it important to connect with that inner child?
In my childhood, I was always on the go. I was always on the move, from performing after school or participating in art classes. For me, connecting with your inner child makes life a little less stressful. You enjoy life way more when you find the fun in life. Just because you are older does not mean you have to stop playing games or watching cartoons with a big bowl of cereal.
Talk about the message you are sending with your art.
I want my art to fit in with fashion and to resonate with people who are fun and have a love for art and cartoons.
What words do you have for those who are following their dreams?
Don’t allow people to stop your creativity or to change your vision; you are in control of your vision. Stop dreaming and turn your dreams into reality or they will be just dreams.
See his work below.
