Paul wong - The evolution of a local artist

He was just in kindergarten at Rayo di Solo when he painted his first creation; an "UltraMan". Little did this small boy know that this art would become a central part of his life. Who doesn't know Paul Wong today? He is an artist who continuously tests himself with his constantly innovating talent.

"I always liked to paint cartoons, and I thought I would go into animation, but everything changed. Since school days, I started my company 'Isla Design,' and thus I began to design creations to put on t-shirts to sell to tourists." Paul continued with his studies and art and designed for local companies, creating unique designs also aimed at locals. At one point, on his father's initiative, he was introduced to the 'customization' of cars and scooters and created his art on them. Fast forward to today, he still sprays cars but has now expanded to art on walls, canvases, and even children's book sketches. Paul Wong's evolution is a natural one filled with color and creativity. "I like this stuff; I've been in this world for a long time. I just go with the flow, and I like it when others appreciate my art." Today, Paul reviews his evolution with us, doing what he still loves with the same passion from decades past.

Many young artists struggle with the difficulty of finding their unique style. What helped you discover your own approach to art, especially in the area of car spraying and customization?

I've always been interested in art, even before I started spraying cars and scooters, I was designing and writing my own t-shirts, so when I started spraying cars, I knew I had to add that artistic flavor to them.

How has the integration of digital tools influenced you in the artistic process, and what advice would you offer to young artists navigating this digital era?

Digital tools are always good because times are changing. The digital era makes life much easier.

You are known as a dynamic artist who is not afraid to explore new mediums and styles. Can you share some advice on how artists can accept change and continue to evolve in their field?

You have to step out of your comfort zone. I started painting walls using paintbrushes combined with airbrushing and sometimes even paint cans.

On your Instagram, you mentioned your love for BMX freestyle and mini-trucks. How do these personal interests intersect with your art, and do they inspire any specific projects or themes in your work?

In the 80s, I was following fashion trends. Those were the best times of my life as a young person. BMX freestyle was colorful, with impressive art and designs. And as for the mini-trucks, they were also impressive with their graphics and colors. And I still practice BMX freestyle and have a mini-truck, lol!

You have participated in art fairs and illustrated children's books. What are the challenges and rewards you have experienced in these different creative endeavors, and how do they shape your artistic journey?

The challenge with art fairs is that you have to expose your work to the public, you want others to appreciate your art, and then the rewards come. And you can meet many artists who share the same passion as you. This has given me a lot of confidence in myself as an artist. To make children's books was a big achievement in my artistic career. I was very honored for this opportunity.

Aruba is known for its natural beauty but is becoming more aware of the importance of promoting art as an expression of the island's identity. How do you see the role of art evolving in Aruba?

Aruba is definitely a joyous island of art! Art has become more prominent in recent years, which is beautiful. Aruba has a lot of talent, and it continues to grow; wherever you look, there's art.

Over the years, the perspective on wall art, like graffiti, has transformed. How do you see this evolution, and how would you say that wall art contributes to cultural expression and resistance, especially in recent movements against developments like hotels?

In the past, graffiti painting was considered vandalism, but now it's recognized as art. Artists express themselves on walls, walls that others want to beautify and make their name known. Many businesses consult with artists to beautify their places. Regarding recent movements, I have no comment.

Which is a creation that you have made that is very special to you so far?

I don't know, they are all different, possibly the largest mural I painted for the art fair "Mi Forsa," which was our national emblem a la Paul Wong, lol.

Can you share some of your future artistic goals and projects you are excited to realize?

I feel blessed to have come so far, and if there's more to come, let it come! Each project or piece of art is a challenge for me, and that's the exciting part, lol.