We recently had an opportunity to sit down with acclaimed artist James Massacci. Founder and master creator of Massacci Art, he shared some exclusive insights on his upcoming Saatchi show in Chicago and how his art is influenced by current world events.
You have a Chicago show coming up under Saatchi at the end of the month. Can you tell us the significance to you of having your collection featured at this specific show?
Massacci: As it’s also known, The Other Art Fair is where I got my first considerable exposure, and it was in Chicago, 4 Years ago. The show is juried (which means they vet you as an artist before you can actually exhibit), and it is by invite only.
We are curious, what have you been doing during the lockdowns over the last year and a half?
Massacci: Oh, you know, self-help books, air fryers, Netflix, zoom… Hahaha, honestly, I have been leveling up since the Lockdown and spending more time in my studio. I felt very inspired seeing everything unfold. I also took it to focus on my goals as an artist and as a man. The tragedies revealed a lot about society, friends, strangers, the media, and our government. I also took up the hobby of not giving a shit if my Art is too truthful.
What’s your Favorite thing about Exhibiting in Chicago?
Massacci: THE PEOPLE BRUV! They are so raw, energetic, and honest about their thoughts. I would much rather I know the unvarnished truth about me or my artwork than talk fluff. My time is too valuable; insult me and help me grow as an artist. I dare you 🙂
How have the current world events affected your Art, and will these pieces be shown at the Saatchi Art show?
Massacci: I can assure you my collection at the show will be controversial. You’ll have to come to judge for yourself. I was already advised by my art agent to not hang two of them. Her advice is noted, but they are both already packaged and bound for Chicago. (Sorry, Lisa! You’re the best agent, and I love you, but it wouldn’t be an Art show without them!)
Who is the most overrated cultural figure of our time, and who is the most underrated?
Massacci: Kanye, I feel, is the most overrated cultural figure of our time. You know we are all a little underrated; I know people who wake up and are literal rays of sunshine to everyone they meet every day, and they have the heaviest challenges that you can’t imagine, but they still genuinely love humans and smile. Fucking Cultural Heros…
What do you feel Art is for?
Massacci: Gracefully sharing uncomfortable truths. And for walls, Art is definitely for walls.
What are you watching, listening to, or following that you would recommend? Have these things in any way affected your Art, and if so, how?
Massacci: The new Polo G Album is unreal. I hope he gets Album of the Year. I get a lot of inspiration from his music. He’s a great storyteller. I also watch a lot of documentaries; some are so powerful that unless you want to bury your head in the sand, you can’t be the same human after watching them.
Which cultural experience changed the way you see the world?
Massacci: Requiring kids to be somewhere all day and forcing them to buy food. Occupying land with soldiers for no reason. Banks taking advantage of hardworking immigrants. Kids held in cages. Politicians selling out the people. Losing our rights under the guise of necessity… Ummm, shall I go on?
If you could live with just one work of Art, what would it be?
Massacci: “The Celebrity.” I’m not sure why but it’s always been my favorite. Fun fact, it’s the only piece I have tattooed on me.
Tickets can be reserved for The Other Art Fair online at theotherartfair.com/chicago/tickets.
Massacci’s collection can be found online at massacciart.com, and you can sign up for his NFT releases at monthlydrops.com.
