ANIMAL showcases a different street artist regularly in our feature, Scratching the Surface. This week, we profile Joseph Meloy and his unique style, coined “Vandal Expressionism.” Meloy combines the abstract expressionism made famous by artists like Jackson Pollock with techniques stemming from graffiti and street art to create a style that can be found on gates and walls across the city.
Name/Alias:
Joseph Meloy
Decade you were born in:
The 80s!
City you currently live:
New York City.
Drugs or natural highs?
I’m high on life. And crack.
How did you get your name?
I was named after my great-grandfather.
Why do what you do?
Because other things tend to feel like a waste of time. And time is precious.
How does your mother feel about your art?
She’s very supportive! And she likes seeing my stickers.
Are you making a living off your art? How’s that working out so far?
I am indeed still alive. It’s really wonderful being such a rich and famous artist.
Fuck the art world or embrace the art world?
The art world just wants to be loved.
Do you bring your smart phone into the bathroom with you? Why?
Always. Good place to craft meaningful text messages.
Do you ever feel like giving up?
Nope.
Suggest an artist to follow.
Michael Alan (@michaelalanalien) — now there is a man who truly lives for his work. And that is inspirational.
