Midwest R&D Interview with Oshun Williams

We recently visited the studio of self-taught Detroit artist Oshun Williams who crafts narratives through acrylic, chenille patches, and carefully chosen newspaper elements. His recent piece 'Collard Greens', a celebration of Detroit's creative future, is now on view at the Siren Hotel.

X: Can you walk us through your typical creative process? How do you start a painting?

Oshun: I like to create in the mornings. I like to treat my profession as an artist seriously, so I try to work during normal work hours as individuals with 9-5 jobs. But I usually start on my projects with a cup of coffee, then usually get to work. 

X: What materials or tools do you prefer to work with, and why?

Oshun: I am a mixed media artist and work with a variety of materials. I prefer to use house paint because I like the bulk amount that house paint supplies to keep a consistent color palette. I am known for using chenille patches in my work. The patchwork comes from me being a clothing designer in the past. I previously ran a successful clothing line for 7 years before becoming a full time artist. 

X: Do you have a particular environment or setting where you feel most inspired to paint?

Oshun: I like to paint at my Detroit studio down stairs in my loft. I like to be alone and have my own space while creating. 

X: Can you share the moment or experience that made you decide to become a painter?

Oshun: Once I joined the Detroit Fine Arts Breakfast Club  

X: Who or what has been your biggest influence or inspiration in your artistic career?

Oshun: Detroit Fine Arts Breakfast Club

X: You’re working late at the studio one night, what is your go to spot for a meal?

Oshun: Usually some hot herbal tea. I am not a big late night eater, usually stop eating at 8/9. If I do ever get hungry at night I will stop by my friends' Late-Night Vegan food truck. It is located in Midtown in Detroit.

X: You mentioned you collect art, do you have a favorite piece or artist?

Oshun: My favorite piece in my collection has to be my Judy Bowman piece. It's my most expensive piece right now in my collection. 

X: What’s your go-to fit when you’re working?

Oshun: Like to usually wear an oversize shirt or hoodie. For my bottoms I wear joggers covered in paint with a beanie to keep my head warm. Anytime I get a new shirt, hoodie, or joggers it easily converts into painting clothes. 

X: What’s the worst financial decision you’ve had to make as an artist in the name of ‘art supplies’?

Oshun: I haven't made too many bad financial decisions with being an artist. Money isn't too hard to make back, not scared to spend it.  

X: Your recent work is sick, especially the ones with the chenille patches — how did that process start / come about?

Oshun: The patchwork comes from me being a clothing designer in the past. I previously ran a successful clothing line for 7 years before becoming a full time artist. I added the patches because I wanted to be innovative with my work. I believe having innovation and drive takes you further than talent.  

X: Top 3 artists dead or alive, who are they?

Oshun: Judy Bowman, Mickalene Thomas, Amy Sherald