We wish our name was Baron Von Fancy. We really do. But just like our hopes of having head-high waves for the rest of summer, a cool name change doesn’t seem to be in the cards anytime soon. However, the real Baron Von Fancy—the ridiculously gifted artist—had a quick chat with our friend, Johan Kugelberg, ahead of his gallery opening in Montauk this past weekend. And that’s about cool enough for the time being. Eavesdrop on their conversation about Baron’s current exhibit at Boo Hooray, finding unlikely inspiration at the local supermarket, and more, below.
Hey, Baron! So how did this exhibit at the Boo Hooray Summer Rental come about?
Boo Hooray has these fabulous collections. When you asked me about doing a summer show I was so amped. Everything Boo Hooray does is cool, so I was immediately sold on going to Montauk to show some of my work.
Photo: Boo-Hooray Summer Rental
What is the difference between commercial art and fine art? What is your preference?
I mostly prefer to look at fine art, but I have been fortunate that I can pay my bills by doing commercial art. There have been a lot of corporate collaborations I’ve been able to work on, and I always enjoy doing those.
How did you develop your amazing alphabets and lettering?
My signage work is an ode to the hand-painted kind I saw growing up. As a kid, I remember my supermarket always had hand-painted signs. Then, one day, the man who made them there disappeared. I decided to learn to paint as a way to remake the signs I loved so much growing up.
As a kid, I remember my supermarket always had hand-painted signs. Then, one day, the man who made them there disappeared. I decided to learn to paint as a way to remake the signs I loved so much growing up.
What artists/stuff/graphics inspire you?
My favorite artists are Sol Lewitt, Wade Guyton, and Jake Patterson. I really love the Cricket wireless commercials that have the little yellow green animated men dancing around and singing. Also, baseball, especially the Mets, is a serious love and inspiration in my life.
What is your favorite product you’ve made so far?
I just made sparklers with Prospect Creative that say “WHEN SPARKS FLY” and I am really in love with them. But my favorite product collaboration was working with Nike. It had always been a dream to work with them, so I was thrilled when it happened.
Do you have an unrealized dream project?
I was born and raised in New York City and will never leave. So doing something with the City of New York is another dream I have. I want to work with the MTA or DSNY on a campaign.
What international corporation would benefit the most from you re-doing their graphic identity?
That is really hard to say.
Where do your slogans come from? Do you ever self-censor?
I try not to self-censor at all and to speak from the heart. The phrases I use are inspired by song lyrics I admire, things I read, and even subway conversations I overhear. I also love cartoon visuals and everything about pop culture.
What can people expect at the exhibit at Boo Hooray Summer Rental?
It’s a fun little eclectic show. I think people will really enjoy it. Come see it!
Check out Baron’s work at Boo-Hooray Summer Rental in Montauk, on exhibit Saturday, July 29th – Sunday, August 6th.
