Oli Hopkins

My work is inspired by cartoons (particularly 80s-00s) and bright colours with big exaggerated shapes, initially to bring comfort and veil somewhat sinister imagery. Finding elements unsettling or ‘off’ is something I strive for and often use familiar objects and saturated colour palettes to contrast this. I source most of my imagery from dreams and nightmares, I think this brings a sense of whimsy to my paintings. I am constantly thinking about drawing and creating and how everything around me can be translated into art. I love storytelling and purpose, having a drive behind every decision in a painting and placement of imagery is important to me, as i’m usually referencing a certain emotion, time or place. Sometimes what you plan doesn’t work out and it’s important to not get frustrated, often I’ll find something perfect for a new painting that was the reason I hated the previous one. Fashion and drag are two things that play with perspective and illusion very well and inspire me too. I do think however the more fun you have making, the more creativity it breeds, dressing up for my own reference photos and making collages are some ways that I get to have fun and inspire myself. I’m predominately a painter but dabbling in animation. I have a background in video art so I’m excited to merge these two parts of myself as an artist and make some more ridiculous stuff.

Instagram: @mouthulcers

Where would you like your work to take you?

Eventually I would like my art to take me in the direction of animation and video games, I love story telling and it feels like a natural progression for me.

Which part of your creative process do you enjoy most?

My favourite part about the creative process is the 5 second euphoria as I finish a piece and must immediately start another project.

Where do you draw inspiration from?

I’m heavily influenced by 80s-00s cartoons, my own dreams and nightmares, surrealism, femme fatales, Japanese wood block prints and folklore.

Can you list a couple other creatives/friends/people you look to for inspiration?

I’m always inspired by my wonderful creative friends including @the.real.hellride @hauntedmattress and @_elemphotos