From New York to Japan, Los Angeles to Brazil, James Goldcrown’s art has literally taken over the world.
Goldcrown, an artist, painter, and photographer, is widely recognized for his “bleeding hearts” murals; A collection of overlapping colorful hearts that are painted on buildings, storefronts, and canvases. Over the past eight years, the murals have become an Instagram sensation, with users and influencers from all over the world flocking to take pictures with the famous street art.
On Thursday, December 7 through Saturday, December 9, Goldcrown live painted a mural for Miami’s Art Basel, at Smorgasburg Miami. The artist is no newbie to the Miami art scene, however on this particular project, he collaborated with Diageo. Festival goers were able to witness Goldcrown’s creation firsthand while sipping on Diageo’s cocktails throughout the duration of the painting.
The Knockturnal was granted an exclusive interview with Goldcrown, where he gave insight into what he planned to paint, where he drew inspiration from, and why he wanted to partner with Diageo on this mural.
The Knockturnal: The Wynwood Walls contain work from some of the most famous street artists in the world. What do you think, as a fellow artist, of the street art scene here in Miami?
James Goldcrown: I think it’s fantastic. I did a mural there a while back and the energy I received was so positive. It’s a great feature Miami offers. I’m thrilled to be back here for Art Basel, and to partner with Diageo and the Cantina to create a new mural this week inspired by some of their most popular drinks.
The Knockturnal: You’ve previously exhibited your work at Art Basel Miami, selling out within two hours. Can you give us any insight into what you might be painting at Smorgasburg, and how your work might differ from the last time you were at Art Basel?
James Goldcrown: I’ll be doing a classic love wall with a special nod to one of the brands that Cantina is featuring for sampling here at Basel – the Vita Coco Spiked with Captain Morgan. That’s all I’ll say for now. Festival goers can come by this weekend to see me in action and the final product!
The Knockturnal: You’ve said in a few interviews that numerous chefs and other artists have been sources of inspiration for you. Who or what will be your source of inspiration when creating this specific piece of work in Miami?
James Goldcrown: The energy around me normally becomes my inspiration so I’m counting on that (no pressure!). But there’s certainly never any shortage of energy and creative inspiration in Miami, especially during Art Basel. I’m excited to take it all in and bring something to life that people can enjoy and connect with – ideally over a cocktail.
The Knockturnal: You’ve done work for national brands like L’Oréal, Rag & Bone, Sephora and more. What made you want to partner with Diageo on this particular project?
James Goldcrown: Diageo is one of the most prestigious names in the spirits world, and I’ve always admired the work they’ve done with creators to give them a platform for their art. Personally, I also am a big fan of Captain Morgan, so it was a very easy ‘yes.’
The Knockturnal: Seeing as Smorgasburg is the largest open-air food market in America and you’ll be spending three days live painting the mural, what foods are you most looking forward to enjoying during your time there?
James Goldcrown: Back in my broke days, I actually lived in Williamsburg before it became the impressive city it’s become. I lived in a small room with my dog on North 7th and that year Smorgasburg started which was one of the first reasons people would come to Williamsburg. I would set up outside and sell my artwork on the streets . When I made a little cash I’d treat myself to something in the market, it was my reward to myself. That said I’m going in blindfolded, I’ve no idea who’s there which makes it more exciting. At least I can afford it now 🤣
The Knockturnal: Can you tell us about any upcoming projects that we should be keeping an eye out for?
James Goldcrown: There are a few exciting things coming up over the next few months/years but you’ll have to follow me at @jgoldcrown to find out
