Ron English on Street Art, Consumerism, and the Market

In an interview with Artribune, American street artist Ron English discusses his 2013 mural in Rome's Quadraro district, painted traditionally without spray paint out of respect for the historic wall. He praises Wayne Rada's vision for the Little Italy festival in New York, which revitalized the neighborhood and provided a home for local artists. English reflects on the tension between street art's rebellious nature and the commercial art market, noting that street art generates revenue comparable to advertising campaigns. He comments on the removal of murals by Blu and Ericailcane in Bologna, comparing it to theft of money glued to a wall, and laments that once buyers exist for stolen street art, the scene is ruined. English names Blu as his favorite Italian artist and Ozmo among younger talents. The interview also touches on his critique of consumerism and junk food, his visit to Banksy's Dismaland, and his exhibition 'Sugar High' at Dorothy Circus Gallery in Rome.