For street artist Dirt Cobain, art is a drug. Cobain is behind murals that can be seen from the Compton metro stop in Los Angeles and the 7 train platform in Sunnyside, Queens, among other noteworthy locations. While he is best known for audacious references to drug paraphernalia like a giant pill bottle labeled, “U get me so high,” Cobain urges his viewers against interpreting the work too literally, intending instead to reflect whatever gives us, his audience, a rush. 

Originally from the Bay Area, Cobain attributes his inspiration to the street art scene in San Francisco, where he spent his formative years admiring the wild lettering and artistic chaos of the city’s graffiti. Out of this came his urban pop-art aesthetic that embraces the grit and grime of big-city living, hence his pseudonym. Whether he’s exploring wood cutouts with resin or acrylic paint on canvas, Cobain brings his signature neon oranges, pinks and stark black lettering to all of his catchphrases like, “I’m gonna need a Xanax for this,” or, “Cruizin for a boozin.” Color us addicted.

You can check out their latest projects on Creatively here.

What is the first creative project you remember? 

One of my first “official” creative projects that I can remember was painting a 10-foot by 10-foot mural of one of Rembrandt’s classic paintings in the hallway of my high school many many years ago.

Describe your aesthetic in three words. 

Authentic, original, unique. 

What was the most fulfilling collaboration you’ve worked on?

This is a tough one because I’ve collaborated with so many awesome artists and creatives, but I always love collaborating and creating with Dave Navarro. He’s very particular in his work, pays attention to detail the way that I do, and we can relate to each other’s creative process.

What’s one creative project that taught you something fundamental about yourself?

I learn something in every project that I do. Even if it’s something small. As an artist, I feel like you should always be learning and growing. 

Do you think creativity is something you’re born with, or something you’re taught?

I’ll be honest, I think creativity is something you’re born with. You either got it or you don’t. 

What’s the last dream you had? 

I rarely have dreams because I never get any sleep. Lol.

One hundred years from now, what do you hope people write about your work?

I think every artist wants to be remembered as “great” but that’s not up to me to decide, that’s up to the masses. All I can do is keep pursuing my journey and hope that people feel my vibe.

Follow @DirtCobain on Creatively

Creatively is more than a platform—we’re a creative collective. 

Questions or feedback? Email us at feedback@creatively.life