Walt Cruz
"Hungry", 2016, Acrylic on laser-cut Basswood
How did you get into debt?
Not having enough knowledge about loans at the time. I knew I didn't want to put my family in a lot of debt so I kept taking loans. There is one loan that I had to co-sign with my mom. I still hate myself for it. Had no choice at the time, they told me that if I didn't find a way to pay for the semester I couldn't come back to finish out the year. It still angers me when I think about it.
"Bacon", 2016,18''x24'', Acrylic on laser-cut Basswood
How does your economic reality effect your art?
Greatly. It's a constant struggle every day. It's caused me suffer serious depression the last few years. All of that has provided much the motivation for my work.
"For You", 2016, 18''x24'', Acrylic on canvas
Would your work look different if you weren't in debt?:
I'm not sure. Maybe?
"Untitled" (Reimagining public housing), 2016, 72''x60'', Acrylic on canvas.
www.waltcruz.com