Meet the Artist: Graham Jewell
A close friend of mine left me a 1970 Playboy in 2020 after staying at my apartment while I was out of town. I became obsessed with vintage ads, beautiful women, and grainy photography. I was always looking at it, until I decided to put it somewhere I could look at it 24/7 – on my wall! Every time I had guests over they asked where I got it, to the point where they asked me to make them one.
Favorite piece you’ve created and why?
Ooof, this is a tough one. Anything I make with Barbi Benton I become attached to. I like the more simple pieces I create – with one focal point, whether it be on a babe or an advertisement that stood out to me. I also find pieces I make specifically for friends are usually my best works!
Where do you feel the most inspired?
While creating, I like to have an open empty space to spread everything out (i.e. my living room). Usually with a glass of natural wine in hand and music playing super loud or Airpods in. (Now playing – “Best for You” by Blood Cultures). In general, while traveling anywhere and everywhere. I’ve felt the most inspired at Arcosanti, Arizona, and Pai, Thailand. Both places are extremely magnetic and breathtaking.
What advice do you wish you could give your younger self?
Do whatever the fuck you want.
Favorite photographer or artistic inspiration?
Video/Photographers – Caroline Friedman, Emilia Maria Staugaard, Maude Roodier, Jack Davison, Luis Alberto Rodriguez, Jas Davis, Sam Wilson, Josh Aikin, Matte Projects
Designers – AMBUSH, Aime Leon Dore, Bottega Veneta, Roberto Cavalli, Cecilie Bahnsen, Virgil Abloh, Slime Sunday
Music – Khruangbin, Jamie xx, Purple Disco Machine, Peggy Gou, Frank Ocean, Kino Todo, Toro y Moi, Blood Cultures, KAYTRANADA, Fakear, James Blake, BROCKHAMPTON, Sylvan Esso
ETC – A24, @phiphibb, @brendahashtag, Jacob Elordi, Wisdom Kaye
Favorite book, TV show, or movie from the past year?
Movies – DUNE, The French Dispatch, Don’t Look Up, ANY Murder Documentary
Books – A Little Life, Supermarket, Yearbook, Just Kids (all-time fave)
TV Shows (all time) – Euphoria, Portlandia, Freaks and Geeks
Last meal on earth? (food, setting, people, etc.)
Breakfast with everyone I love in a beautiful place by the water or Joshua Tree.