“The world is not rooting for you. They don’t want you to be Hemingway. They actually want to mock you. But it’s a great thing—that if you don’t have the guts to break through, then you don’t belong there. You’ve got to be willing to be made fun of. It’s not up to you to decide whether your work is good or bad.”—Ethan Hawke

Artist Statement

As an artist deeply rooted in the ethos of Generation X, I explore the intersections of culture, identity, and nostalgia in the ever-evolving tapestry of contemporary life through a diverse array of mediums, including pop art, graphic design, video, exhibits, podcasts, and writing.

In my visual work, I draw inspiration from the icons and artifacts of pop culture that defined my formative years, as both a celebration and interrogation of the zeitgeist. In my podcasts and written work, I delve deeper into the human psyche—from intimate reflections on personal struggles to humorous takes on life.

I believe in embracing the complexities of our culture alongside themes of melancholy, nostalgia, boredom, anxiety, and satire. Through my work, I invite audiences to confront their own truths about themselves, finding solace in the shared experiences we all have—and potentially fostering empathy in an increasingly fragmented world.

Vince Murphy, artist