a conversation with Steven Harrington for FvF

"Elements of 80’s postmodernism and airbrushed playfulness
are blended with a simple ”feel good” California 60‘s vibe.
It’s hard not to smile when looking at his work."







I recently interviewed Steven Harrington for Freunde von Freunden.. The entire interview and photos are on the site, here. All photographs are by Ailine Liefeld.



The sun was already becoming intense when we met up with Steve Harrington at his studio near Atwater Village in Los Angeles. The exterior of his studio is painted in a matte black charcoal, a simple modern structure on a semi-residential, unremarkable street. Harrington wears many hats as an art director, a designer, and an artist. It’s often times hard to see where one division starts and where one ends, though. His passion and dedication to create is apparent, and definitely deserves the received attention and respect he has gotten for his work over the past years. Steven Harrington’s art work can be hyper-colorful, while seemingly drawing influences from the street artists on Venice Beach. Elements of 80’s postmodernism and airbrushed playfulness are blended with a simple ”feel good” California 60‘s vibe. It’s hard not to smile when looking at his work. His art has been shown in American and European galleries, and he has recently collaborated with Generic Surplus, designing a shoe along with a loose narrative based on the “crystal skulls.”

We traveled by car up into the hills of South Pasadena, a nearby suburb of Los Angeles to Steven’s home. While each winding turn took us higher, the views quickly became more epic with each curve. Steven’s home is tucked away from the road, a hidden retreat of sorts, filled with friends’ artwork. It’s the perfect home to watch a Californian sunset. On the way out, I found a quote handwritten by his girlfriend on a small piece of paper, taped to their mirror. It reminded me of the conversation that Steven and I just had, relating to the ideas of creation, death, along with “the crystal skulls.” It stated “Real authentic change emerges only from a place of deep focus and intention.” Well said. - David John








the studio of Steven Harrington




FvF is an international interview magazine that portrays people of diverse creative and cultural backgrounds in their homes or within their daily working environments. Our content aspires to present multifaceted personal perspectives including impressions of cities, various art scenes and international urban living.



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