Prepare to be inspired as we sit down with Alex Sugar, the artist who set the internet on fire with his mesmerising mural at the Humula Fire Station.
What inspired you to create murals focusing on fires and Australian bushfires? Is there a personal connection or experience that led you in this direction?
The inspiration behind these murals comes from the need to honour the spirit of the site, particularly highlighting the incredible service of local volunteer firefighters and the rich natural environment in Humula. It’s not a personal connection, but more about paying tribute to the community and their environment.
Your murals are known for their striking colours and details. Can you tell us about the techniques or materials you use to capture the essence of flames and the natural environment in your artwork?
Absolutely! I primarily use house paint and spray guns for creating gradients and background colours. Then, all the finer details, like the flames and natural elements, are done with aerosol spray, giving it that vivid and detailed look.
Have you created murals for specific locations or communities deeply affected by bushfires? How has the local response been to your work?
Interestingly, the mural on the fire station in Humula was my first focus on bushfires. The local response was really positive, and I felt honoured to bring a burst of colour to the community.
Can you share any upcoming projects or murals you’re working on, or any other issues you plan to pay tribute to through your art in the future?
There are always exciting mural projects in the pipeline. My main focus now is a solo exhibition I have next year in the USA. It will highlight Australian flora and fauna, along with other elements of Australiana.
It sounds like something to look forward to! In terms of technique, do you have any specific influences or inspirations from other artists that have shaped your work?
There are so many great artists out there. I’ve always been fascinated by the level of detail that artists can achieve with a spray can. It’s not easy, and it’s something I continually strive to improve in my work.
Do you have any pieces that stand out as particularly popular or memorable? Where can people see them?
I have a few favourites, but I can’t really pick just one. Some of the more popular pieces are not too far from my area in Melbourne. As for where people can see them, my website, alexsugar.com, and my Instagram, @alexsugar, are great places to explore more of my work.
It’s fantastic that people can easily access your portfolio. Lastly, can you share which piece was the hardest or most intensive to create?
One of the most challenging experiences was when I was painting a large 50m x 9m high mural of my dogs a few weeks ago. The spray gun wasn’t working, and it started raining, which wasn’t too much fun, I can tell you that!
And to wrap it up, can you reveal your personal favourite piece among all your creations?
My favourite would probably be a self-funded mural of a surreal still-life painting dedicated to my partner, Alyssa.
