Why I Make Art: Contemporary Artists' Stories about Life and Work

Introducing a fascinating compilation of interviews with artists from the archives of Sound & Vision, a podcast directed by American artist and educator Brian Alfred. Why I Make Art: Contemporary Artists' Stories About Life and Work presents conversations recorded between 2016 and 2020—four tumultuous years in America and around the world.

Why I Make Art offers readers an intimate, contemplative view from thirty remarkable creators with compelling stories, entertaining and thoughtful anecdotes, examining themes as varied as music and skateboarding, immigration and statelessness, community and identity.

Each chapter connects us with Alfred’s subjects as he expertly delves into the practices, influences and life stories of inspirational emerging and established art stars. Illustrated with stunning artwork throughout, the featured artists’ work spans multiple mediums including painting, drawing, photography, sculpture, performance and land art.

Artists include Diana Al-Hadid, Jules de Balincourt, Dove Bradshaw, Gregory Crewdson, Heather Day, Inka Essenhigh, Amir H. Fallah, Louis Fratino, Dominique Fung, Karel Funk, vanessa german, Allison Janae Hamilton, Loie Hollowell, Kahlil Robert Irving, Clinton King, Chris Martin, Tony Matelli, Tomokazu Matsuyama, Geoff McFetridge, Maysha Mohamedi, Liz Nielsen, Helen O’Leary, Carl Ostendarp, Hilary Pecis, Erin M. Riley, Devan Shimoyama, James Siena, Cauleen Smith, Salman Toor and Robin F. Williams.

As told to Brian Alfred. Foreword by Hrishikesh Hirway.