BraveNewHollywood.com

artist Erika (iri5) Simmons

Steve Tyler by iri5

President Obama composed of photographs from Pete Souza’s book “The Rise of Barack Obama” – art by iri5

Alfred Hitchcock out of recycled film and reel. On canvas, by iri5

Madonna by iri5

What do you call the pieces you create? Is there a name for them? I call the art the “Ghost in the Machine” series. All my work is permanently glued onto canvas, so it all can be framed and hung on the wall.

When did you realize you have a passion for art in general? I was never interested in art at all until after I finished university. Then I saw art by Ken Knowlton and Vik Muniz, who create composite portraits. It blew my mind when I saw their art and I wanted to make my own.

How did you decide on using the material you now use to create the art? I spent a long time experimenting with different materials – about a year tearing up whatever I could find or buy at second-hand shops. I liked using things that were old or obsolete. Then one day I pulled out the ribbon in the cassette and it reminded me of Jimi Hendrix’s hair; so that was the first portrait I made. I’ve done about 50 now.

Have you had any feedback from celebrities about your work?  Is their endorsement important? I’ve gotten a lot of support from celebrities and other artists. The musician Bruno Mars recently used my cassette concept for his new music video “Just the Way You Are.”  I appreciate support from anyone though.

How do you choose the subject you are going to pay “homage” to (or create)? Most of the pieces I’ve created have been requests from people, but I loved making the first Jimi Hendrix, the Bob Marley, and John Lennon pieces.

Is it your homage to them or choosing the subject has nothing to do with that? Another words, are you a fan of the people you exhibit in your work?I’m a fan of most of the people I’ve made artwork of, but some were commissions that I had never heard of. I don’t mind making something that someone else will like. It’s more important to share it, not just create only what I enjoy.

Most of iri5′s pieces are for sale.  Thirteen new pieces  are completed and available  for sale. Prices start around $2400 for these new items.  All originals. No re-prints. see all iri 5′s work:  http://www.flickr.com/photos/iri5

More info: http://www.iri5.com/Home_Page.html