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Welcome to our interview with Felipe Pantone, the renowned Spanish artist behind the stunning mural “OPTICHROMIE for Jersey City.” This mural, which measures 70×20 meters and requires over 170+ gallons of paint, is not only Felipe’s largest painting ever but also one of the tallest in the US.
In this interview, we will delve into the creative process and challenges that Felipe and his team faced while creating this monumental public artwork. From experiencing hard rain to navigating two earthquakes while up extremely high on the lift, Felipe shares his experiences and insights into what it takes to bring a project of this scale and ambition to life.
Join us as we discuss the inspiration, meaning, and impact of “OPTICHROMIE for Jersey City” and get an inside look into the mind of one of the most exciting and innovative artists working today.
GraffitiStreet
The mural “OPTICHROMIE' is the largest building painted in your career. What inspired you to take on such a massive and challenging project like “OPTICHROMIE' for Jersey City”?
Felipe Pantone
It’s every kid’s dream who started painting on the streets: to have your own piece in such a size and location. Visual art hits hard when it takes up most of your field of vision.
Another thing that feels like an achievement is imposing such a particular image, created by me, of abstract nature, which the average person seems to have few references to connect with at first glance.
In that sense, I really appreciate the trust from the organization that commissioned the artwork.
GraffitiStreet
How did the physical and mental challenges of creating such a large-scale mural impact your artistic process and approach to the project?
Felipe Pantone
I designed the mural considering my experience, what seemed feasible, and taking on new challenges like the size since this mural is the largest I’ve ever painted, as well as technical challenges that I wasn’t sure I could execute, such as 40-meter colour gradients.
However, I have a lot of confidence in myself and my problem-solving abilities. You gain confidence the more you risk in general, and I’ve been taking risks in painting for quite a few years now.
The physical challenges are evident due to the size, and the mental challenges mainly involve getting the entire team rowing in the same direction, knowing that the end result will be worth it.
Undoubtedly, the team rose to the occasion, and I’m very proud of them.
GraffitiStreet
How did the location of the mural influence the design and composition of the artwork?
Felipe Pantone
I’ve said many times before that my work doesn’t consider a specific geographical location. My work aims to speak to a generation as I try to reflect (from geometric abstraction) an idea of contemporary times, so it’s more about a moment in history than a city on the planet.
However, I do have a photographic eye, and the location always shapes the composition, involving everything surrounding the artwork.
GraffitiStreet
Can you talk more about the creative and technical process of designing and executing such a complex and intricate mural? How did you collaborate with your team and other artists to bring this mural to life?
Felipe Pantone
The way I work with my team when painting a mural is that I start by sketching the design on the wall with a pencil while they fill in solid colors with a roller and masking tape behind me.
GraffitiStreet
What were some of the key elements that you considered when designing the mural?
Felipe Pantone
I wanted it to be a complex image that captures the public’s attention and represents contemporaneity (containing graphic elements of my idea of the present times).
At the same time, it had to be an ultra-dynamic composition that made sense within its surroundings.
Lastly, it had to be “paintable,” although it was really pushing the limits of what could be painted by me.
GraffitiStreet
What techniques did you use to create the stunning gradients in this mural?
Felipe Pantone
I made the gradients using an airless sprayer, blending colours to achieve the smoothest and cleanest gradient possible. The airless sprayer feels like a giant spray can, and although it’s much heavier, it allows you to create gradients on a much larger scale.
GraffitiStreet
How did you and your team navigate the unpredictable weather conditions during the 25-day stay while creating the mural? What does it feel like being so high in the air in windy/ rainy conditions ?
Felipe Pantone
I don’t mind being up high at all. The problem arises when there’s too much wind, and the lift bounces and sways in all directions. It’s hard to stay close to the wall, and sometimes you have to grab onto the cornice or any protrusion.
Rain is clearly an issue, too, as it chills you, you get sick, and everything seems to go wrong!
We also had two earthquakes, but the truth is, we barely noticed them because the wind on the swing stage already makes you feel like you’re in an earthquake.
GraffitiStreet
How did the weather affect painting the mural?
Felipe Pantone
The worst part was a couple of times when we painted in very humid conditions (so the paint wouldn’t dry), and later, it rained heavily, causing all that paint to run. We had to repaint everything in the following days.
That wasn’t fun, but after all, everything has been worth it!
And after every rainstorm, look out for the rainbow! A beautiful 70×20 m one! Thank you for joining us for this insightful and inspiring interview with Felipe Pantone. Through his words, we gained a deeper understanding of the creative process and challenges behind creating a work of public art on such an extra-large scale.
“OPTICHROMIE for Jersey City” is an incredible achievement, not only due to Felipe’s artistic vision but also due to the dedication and hard work of his team. We hope that this interview has given you a glimpse into the mind of an artist who is pushing the boundaries of what is possible in public art.
As we say goodbye, we look forward to seeing what Felipe Pantone creates next and to the impact his work will have on the art world and the communities that experience it.
Image Copyright Felipe Pantone
