Art News
Bollee Patino Paints 16-ft Artwork Installation at Downtown New York City’s Dream Hotel
Influenced by NYC’s vibrant street art culture, Bollee Patino‘s exceptional 16-foot artwork is the first live art installation made specially for the Dream Downtown in NYC. Merging his background in graffiti, underground skate, and hip-hop culture with New York’s vibrant street art scene, Bollee’s latest work captures the reverie of exploring a new city.
We spoke with Bollee to ask what it is really like painting a live installation, at Dream Hotel’s stylish NYC location.
How was creating this particular artwork different from other projects in a studio?
When creating a live installation or project outside of my studio, I find it awkward at first. I feel as if I am dancing with two left feet. The lay of the land, required supplies, and peculiar setup are key factors for me. I have to get comfortable with my surroundings before I can get into a groove. I like to pace around to look at the painting from afar or at different angles. This helps me get a better visual roadmap of what is needed. My practice is organic, so I don’t really have a cheat sheet to work off of—it’s pure flow. But, during a live installation, it has to be a quick flow. You don’t want to be sitting around thinking too much. You just got to go for it.
Unlike other live projects, it was much easier for me to paint at Dream because the setup was perfect: a controlled climate, lots of natural light, open space, and the ability for me to get a little messy if needed. Once I put on my headphones and began my playlist, it brought me to a comfortable place, as if I was in my studio.
What are the benefits and drawbacks of creating artwork in a live setting?
One cool thing about a live installation versus my studio is engaging with people. The ability to talk to people and listen to their opinions or experiences with the art is great. It also allows me to explain my vision and purpose in person and connect with the passing public. It helps give me a different perspective on how others see my art. This is also a drawback, at times. For example, when you are making great progress and in a flow, interruptions can throw you off. You have to find a way to get yourself back to that state of mind quickly.
You mentioned this artwork is influenced by the existing street art culture in New York City. Can you describe more about your creative process? Where do you draw inspiration from?
My creative process is a series of in-the-moment actions where one color or section leads to another. I always start with a foundational layer, merging and overlaying colors to form shapes. Similar to abstract expression, the foundation stands on its own before I continue to add elements.
New York has inspired me the most with my style. Similar to how each borough has its own voice but collectively tells a great story. Every corner has art from the sidewalk to the top of the building. I try to capture that sense of self within a bigger picture. It’s truly an inspiring place if you just stop and look. It has a great story with movements often merging together. Street artists like Kobra, Swoon, and Space Invader and contemporary artists like Basquiat and George Condo have all touched this city in their own way, both directly and indirectly. This is what inspires the painting the most: we all have a voice here in our own special way. Be yourself and the rest will follow.
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Bollee’s artwork kicks off a year-long partnership between Saatchi Art and the Dream Hotels to introduce emerging global artists to hotel guests. These works are for sale separately or as one work. If interested, please email curator@saatchiart.com.
