I had the pleasure of interviewing Erin Davis! She founded the brand LOVE MORE and helped kickstart the Say Gay High School club, as well as the Love More Student Club. I was most curious about how she creates those beautiful murals that brighten up our town.
Q: How do you plan/set up such a large-scale painting?
A: “I typically use a projector to show the image on the wall, then use chalk or marker to draw it on there. This usually works best for me. When you are working in the elements, sometimes you have to roll with the punches, and the setup isn’t always perfect.”
Q: What does the process look like to find a building to paint? Do businesses reach out to you, or vice versa?
A: “Sometimes there are call-outs for artists, for instance, I did a mural for the Johnson County Community Foundation one year. The Indy Art Council also puts out information, seeking artists for specific murals/installations. I have done some cold emailing, but that hasn’t worked for me. I have had people contact me on their own, both business and personal properties.”
Q: How does the weather affect your work? How do you avoid damage?
A: “Obviously, you can’t paint in the rain. Depending on the weather, you may wait for the shadier times. There is a Sealant called Graffiti Block, it’s almost like a rubbery substance. So if someone vandalizes your work, you can clean it off more easily. Sometimes you just have to repaint it. Nothing is forever.”
Q: Do you see a social difference in a town full of art compared to one without?
A: ” Public art is place-making, it’s what makes a house a home.”
In her response to the last question, Erin sent me a YouTube video of the President of Johnson County Community Foundation and her, discussing how important art is to a community.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M8cB_ujJ1ew
Here is a link to the “LOVE MORE” website!
