It’s a New Year! Why not bring it in with a new STAMP artists feature!? Our 22nd artist feature brings us south to the country of Mexico, where we met up with an artist skillful in both canvas and body art. Readers sit back and join in on our conversation with Alan Padilla.

STAMP: Introduce yourself.  What is something u want the world to know about you?
Alan: My name is Alan Padilla. I’m from a small town in Hidalgo, Mexico. I have been very fortunate to be able to dedicate my life to art. But I could not have gotten here without the support from my family and friends. They have given me the freedom to follow my dreams. I love corn: D

STAMP: When did you become interested in art?
Alan: Since I can remember I have always been interested in art. My father studied architecture and my used to paint so they made sure I always had pencils and paper around. At a young age I had several eye surgeries, so I spent a lot of time in bed drawing; mostly comics and characters I created.

STAMP: What is your medium of choice and why?
Alan: I have tried many mediums, from color pencil, pastel, airbrush to acrylic but never felt as comfortable as when I started to paint with oils. I love the way oil lets you blend and create texture. But what I’ve noticed is that the more I paint and draw the better I get at my job, which is my true passion…tattooing.

STAMP: Did you study art at an art school?  If so which one and in what way did that experience help you as an artist?  If not, do you wish you did?
Alan: I never attended any formal art school but it would have helped me to learn techniques faster. I have recently started taking painting classes with teachers that I look up to.

STAMP: How has your experience been as an artist in your country/city of residence? Are there any demographic limitations or advantages?
Alan: I currently live in San Pedro, California, which is a very artsy community. I am grateful to live in a place filled with art and other encouraging artists.

STAMP: As an artist, what are the most common setbacks that you’ve faced? (personally, w/medium, w/craft etc)?
Alan: I would have to say that the fact that there are so many great artists out there makes it harder but also keeps it interesting. I always wonder if I will be able to keep up. Sometimes I feel like I build up a lot of shit in my head, but in reality it’s all about expression.

STAMP: Are there any historical or contemporary artists that you specifically admire or that you are inspired by?
Alan: I look up to the Masters like Micheal Angelo, Bernini, Caravagio…etc.  Because it was not only about painting it was also about art composition and meaning. And now these days the artists I looks up to, especially in the tattoo community, I have been able to meet and I have much respect for but are too many  to name.

STAMP: Have you ever shown in galleries? If so, what was the experience like? If not, how come?
Alan: Yes, and it has been an awesome experience. Especially being able to see people react to my work. I am also very open to critics and other points of view.

STAMP: What role do you feel the internet has on art? Positive or negative?
Alan: Mostly positive because you can search for anybody and get inspired.  You are also able to show your work instantly to people all over the world.

STAMP: Have you ever felt limited or trapped by your style?  With so, much pressure on mainstream art, have you felt peer pressured into conforming?
Alan: I think it’s all in my head and the pressure can build up quickly if I let it.  Because I do tattoos for a living, sometimes I just have to conform and make the client happy. But when I paint I do the things I like to do and I can try new ideas.

STAMP: After viewing your work, what feeling or thought do you want to leave the viewer with?
Alan: Good question…at the moment I have been painting images that remind me of a time that has passed. I think a painting is like a song, when you hear it again it takes you back to that moment. I only hope people feel the same way when they  see my work.

STAMP: Do you agree with the overall objective of STAMP Magazine?  Why or Why Not?
Alan: I think you guys are doing a great job providing a space for artists to show their work and have a voice. Thank You STAMP Magazine.

To see more of Alan’s work: visit his facebook page at www.facebook.com/AlanPadillaArt; or email for more information  ta2_templo@yahoo.com