A Minute With Maxwell Sykes

I saw Maxwell hit a half court shot and had to find out more. Then I saw a work of his at our friends Stir Crazy and figured we need to run some 1’s (hoop talk for 1 on 1…trying to be cool) and talk about his upcoming show.

Can you chat a bit about your upcoming show and how long you've been working to prepare and make work for it?

MS: Sure, my upcoming show is at Entrance Gallery in early September. I have been working indirectly on this show for a little over a year essentially since I moved to New York from Los Angeles. This is a slow show with slow works. I have tried to simplify and slow down a lot of things in my life and I think that is shown in the show. Also clearly architecture has been a focus along with repetition, color and shape.

How do you know when a painting is finished?

MS: I generally never know exactly when a painting is finished, but after looking at it for many days and not having a desire to work on it more that is a sign. Occasionally I will know right away that the work is complete. A feeling.

What is currently giving you motivation to work?

MS: Haha! My training regiment is going to the park and running the court. Also watching tons of highlights of mid NBA players on instagram. I am 6'3"

Back to actual art questions, who should we have on next?

MS: I think you should have Bjorn Copeland on next wonderful artist and musician. 10/10 person.

Can you share some pictures of your studio?

What is 1 piece of advice you can give to our readers regarding collecting and supporting artists like yourself?

MS: I'm not the best for advice even though my friends keep calling and asking for it haha.

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