Gilly’s Legend: Gus Harper – Artist

Who are you, where are you from and where are you now?

I am Gus Harper, artist, born and raised in Santa Monica. I currently live in Venice Beach and meeting your studio by the Santa Monica Airport

What do you do for a living and how long have you been doing it?

I have been a full-time artist for over 20 years now!

What inspires you to do what you do?

Honestly, I think it’s mostly just a zest for life. Man has this primal need to mark on walls, to say “I was here”. I think most of my work is celebratory but some of it is merely a reflection of my emotions, good and bad. And it’s an aesthetic journey. Each creation I make gives me ideas for future projects.

Was there a pivotal moment in your life that you knew this was your calling?

I think I just had a dream of being an artist ever since I was a little kid. And when I was in my early 20s I dared to make a go of it. I promised I would commit myself to this endeavor for a couple of years and it all seems to work out!

Do you have an epic story/memory in your line of work that stands out to you the most?

It’s kind of cool that when I was 17 years old I had a chance encounter with one of my heroes… Johnny Gray. He was the American track and field record holder in the men’s 800 meters which was the event I ran. I had him autograph a drawing I did of him and he asked me to make a painting for them. That was my first sale. For $100! It was a nice boost for a young, eager kid.

If you could share an adult beverage with anyone, who would it be with and what would you order?

I’m not a drinker at all.  I just never got into it.  If I did drink it would be a Mint Julep, and it would be with my Dad Alex.

Don’t worry Gus, you don’t have to drink to be a Legend!

Could you share a few legendary last words for the people?

Be kind, be brave, be humble, be bold, be yourself. Find what brings you joy and share it with the world.