The latest Artist Showcase comes from Andy Dykeman, who’s work is inspired, amongst other things, by forensic autopsies and Punk Rock. A fan of the term outsider art, Andy feels that labels can help direct people to their tastes. 

When did your interest in art/creating begin

I have always drawn and written as long as I can remember. Growing up, my family life was uninspired as far as art was concerned but I wrote and drew constantly. My parents were not sure where I came from. I didn’t start playing music until 8th grade and didn’t start painting until college.

What is your starting point for each piece?

With my newest paintings, I have been using a template that was outlined from various anatomical charts. I spray paint an outline, then start getting messy with house paints and acrylics.

Who/what influences your work?

After my father passed away, I became driven to paint more and have not slowed down since. Working in a clinic, I am surrounded by the human element as well as anatomy charts and biomedical/histological pictures which seem to make their way into my work.

Having spent time completing forensic autopsies has obviously influenced me, as well as great artists like Mikey Welsh, Butch Anthony, Matt Sesow, all of the members of the COBRA movement, Frank Netter, Basquiat and Norris Embry. And of course, Punk Rock is always an inspiration.

What do you hope the viewer gets from your work?

Some people may “get it.” Many may not. If you like it, that’s the one for you. If not, move on. Some people like mustard, others don’t.

What do you think about the term Outsider Art? Is there a term that you think works better?

Outsider art is just a label. And labels usually suck. Especially when it is pertaining to art. But on the other hand, labels do help direct people to their particular tastes.

What label do you put on a band like Slayer? Heavy metal, thrash metal, black metal, death metal, speed metal? Who knows? Nowadays, just type in any of the labels and start looking (or listening) for what you like.

You can go down the rabbit hole and discover whole new worlds with a simple label. Outsider art, Art Brut, Neo-Expressionism, whatever you wanna call my art is fine with me. However, I prefer outsider art since it usually emphasizes the lack of formal art training/education.

What are you working on at the moment?

I am currently prepping for a show on 29^th March. That means I am painting a ton.

Where do you see your work taking you in the future? 

I have no idea. I am always thrilled for new adventures. Let’s see where this goes. In the meantime, I am keeping my day job.

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• See more of Andy’s work here

• Read an article about Andy and his work here