Peyton Scott Russell shares his journey as an artist and his work teaching graffiti as a fine art. He discusses his early passion for art, his struggles with academics, and how he found his calling in teaching art to at-risk youth. He talks about the impact of his viral George Floyd painting and his current work combining plein air painting with graffiti aesthetics. Peyton advises young artists to embrace their power and explore their truth.
● Peyton teaches art, particularly graffiti, as a fine art and has developed curriculum and programs for at-risk youth.
● Respect for the graffiti culture can come full circle as artists mature and find ways to contribute to the community.
● Transitioning from street art to the art world can be challenging, but it is possible to find ways to continue practicing and open up new opportunities.
● Supporting programs like Sprayfinger that provide graffiti arts education can help empower young artists and create positive change in communities.