Unit44 gives me the opportunity to really get on the level with some amazing international talents for the Breaksof10 reader. With a solo show on the horizon I was over the moon to get into all things Philip Lumbang whilst he prepares for his first show in the UK. An artist who has commanded my attention for some time now as continues to embody that LA lifestyle and creativity that is projected across the world. What’s incredible is his connection with his work, he himself almost personifies his characters, full of life, movement, humour, & it’s amazing to see such link between painter and painting. Although on the other side of the planet he shares the same love of childhood nostalgia ticklers like cartoons and film which is constantly reaffirmed through his work. It’s just another dynamic for people to fall in love with. I love the work on numerous levels – I challenge you to not feel the same…
Obviously stoked to hear your UK bound this year to show with UNIT44 – That has to be exciting knowing that people are so passionate about your output on the other side of the world?
I know! It’s pretty awesome. When I first got the email to have a show here i immediately jumped at the idea. This opportunity is pretty much justification for all the hard work I’ve done, this show is definitely a mile stone for my career as an artist. I’m really glad to be working with unit44.
I know bits about your creative background & of course your graduation from the School of Shep. What was it like working for such a huge ‘street art’ super brand?
Yeah, I’m no spring chicken I’ve been in the game for almost 7 years, as a working graphic designer/artist 3 of which under Shepard. Those years were for sure the most educational for me, that man is a machine and has the most hardcore work ethic, often sending me emails during holidays haha. I learned more about art and design from him than I did at design school.
A huge amount of our readership will know your characters from The Hundreds collab and the work you do for those guys. It always seems like such an awesome community of creatives over there in LA. Does it feel like a big family?
I’ve often said if you want to make it, you got to be in LA. I can’t even tell you how many awesome people I’ve met here. The creative mojo is thick in the air here, and people breath that shit in everyday, you just want to get up and do something you know?
Anyone we should be looking out for?
One of my best friends, artist/ activist Ernesto Yerena. Got to check him out.
Awesome Academy? This excites me massively – can you tell me some more?
AA is my side project clothing line. It’s really a product of countless emails from fans to get my “awesome bear” on t-shirts. So I answered the call and got in to business. The project is still in it’s infancy but I have big plans for it.
I can’t believe it’s half way through the interview and I haven’t said congrats on the new arrival. You stoked to have a little padawan in the house!
Thanks man! Yea he is my greats work of art yet! Don’t get me wrong, it is THOUGH work waking up at 5 in the morning to change diapers but god damn it is rewarding. I’ve honestly never felt true love before I held little Oliver in my arms for the first time.
What else is going on in 2012?
I got some big thangs poppin in the year of the apocalypse haha, bunch of groups shows booked up and a solo show downtown La in July. I’m just trying to get a steady work flow going let’s just see how it goes!
See you soon brother.
Unit44 presents ‘New Arrival’ Solo works by Philip Lumbang, LA.
Advanced Preview Friday 3rd February 2012.
Show Open to the general public from Monday 6th throughout February.
Rsvp: Danny@Unit-44.com
Unit44, Hoults Yard, Newcastle, NE6 2HL
