|
 |
AARON FULCHER
ART TRIPPIN'
By Geoffrey Stephenson
Photos courtesy of Aaron Fulcher
From the November 2008 issue of PRICK Magazine
|
|
|
|
If you’re a fan of tattoo inspired artwork and clothing, then chances are that
you’ve seen the work of Aaron Fulcher. He’s the artist behind the Hardnox
Clothing line, which incorporates Fulcher’s marvelous imagery onto their
products. Fulcher is an impressively prolific artist, consistently cranking out
astounding artwork and designs. Although he’s not a tattoo artist, Fulcher has
gained cred. in the industry because of his personable nature and respect for the
business. He has created artwork for and appeared at numerous tattoo conventions
over the years. Even with his impressive resume of artistic achievements,
most folks probably aren’t aware of his name. We decided it’s time to change that;
we introduce you to the amazing Aaron Fulcher.
How long have you been creating art?
For as long as I can remember. My father was an artist and sitting and
watching him paint was a big part of my childhood. It wasn't really a
decision to become an artist. It just seemed to be my thing. That and
I suck at everything else [laughs].
|
|
What are your favorite things to draw?
That is a tough question. I love it all. Though if I had to pick, I am definitely
a fan of the creepy and macabre, but I can find something enjoyable
in any project. I believe that is important for longevity in any art
field. Burn out is no joke. So give me diversity, and variety. As long as
I can keep creating and scratching that itch I am good.
You've done a bunch of tattoo convention artwork.
When and how did you get hooked up with the tattoo
industry?
I have been a fan of tattoos since I was a kid. My grandmother’s brother
had tattoos, my father has tattoos, and I tried my first on myself at
age twelve. Art on the skin has always amazed me, and those who
could make beautiful art on a moving, bleeding canvas, has always left
me in awe. So when I partnered with Rachel Screen printing, one of
the first things that I wanted to pursue was the tattoo industry. Bob
[Judd] and Don [Burgess] really had faith in me and saw as I did, that
this was a great scene with great people. There really were not a lot
of quality screen printers at that time pursuing the industry. And of
course, there’s Billy Eason. Billy gave us our first shot at the shows, as well as introducing
us to our first clients in the tattoo industry. After that, the tattoo community
in general really began to except us with open arms. I try to give the quality
and respect for the art and design that they put into their work. I hope that comes
across. I believe that's how you pay your dues in this industry. Talent and ability
come first. No shit talking. "Let's see what you can do.” And that's for me...
So, you have thought of becoming a tattoo artist.
Of course, as I said, I tried to do my own tattoo on my forearm when I was twelve
years old. It was supposed to be a small cross, but it became more of a small spotted
plus sign. And that is when I said to myself, "self" this is not your thing [laughs].
I believe that it’s best left to those who have dedicated themselves to it. I learned
early that being a good artist does not mean you would be a good tattoo artist. I
have met great and talented friends in the industry, from Brandon Bond and Bob
Tyrrell to just artists struggling to make a name for themselves. And I have the
utmost respect for them all.
|
|
Tell us a little about Hardnox.
Hardnox is our baby. It takes a lot of effort from all of us. The three partners in
Hardnox, are the same as in Rachel's: Bob Judd, Don Burgess and myself. But it is a
whole family of people who make this happen. For me it is my getaway from the
restraints of custom design. As an artist, it allows me the freedom to create without
worrying if it is what the client wants. I do a lot of hardcore content. And that
is our formula. Just throw it out there. If it works, good, if not, move on. And most
times, the harder the better. It is definitely a reflection of my growing up like a lot
of people, in the city of shit ain’t always pretty...
You seem to be constantly creating artwork. Where do you draw
your inspirations from? How do you stay creative?
I feel that constantly creating is the key to staying creative, even if it is just some
crap that you will never use or sell. Just
do it. Keep the juices flowing. I am
inspired by many things, kind of everything.
You can see art in all things really.
Good, bad, ugly. You know. All that artsy
crap [laughs]. And of course, music is a
huge part of the creative process for
me, as a lot of artists.Art and music just
seem to go together, from Bad Brains to
Billie Holiday and from Minor Threat to
Miles Davis. Music is another large influence in my life.
Tell us a little about your tattoos. Any plans for some new work?
Other than my personal scratch, I have a chest piece that I had done by artist Carl Fuchs.
As for future tattoos I am very patient. The caliber of work seems to be getting better
and better. And I am definitely a quality not quantity guy. So I look forward to some beautiful
work down the road. Where, what, when? Who knows?
|
|
What do you like to do when you're not creating art?
When I am not at work I am a family man through and through. I have a wife of 15 years
Dana,my two sons Aaron 15, and Caleb 10. They are my support system, and I could never
be where I am today if it was not for them. So basically some good food, drinks, music,
family, friends, and all is well with the world.
Any final words or future plans?
As far as the future goes, I just want to keep doing what I am doing, hopefully improving
along the way, surrounded by good people. That's what it's all about. At 33, I hope I still
have plenty of growing and living to do.
| |
|
|
|
