Kas King of Belleville is the July artist of the month. He’s a painter who mainly uses acrylics and spray paint.

How long have you been an artist or when did you start? Was there a single incident or moment when you realized this was your passion? If so, tell us about it.

I’ve been creating my entire life. I started painting all of three years ago! The moment I knew was when I gave up my love for sports to take on my artistry during high school.

Illinois has been factored into your work in the past. What does being able to live and work in Illinois mean to you? 

Up until the age of 27, Illinois is all I’ve ever known. With Chicago and the Metro East being such a major art hubs, the arts are more vibrant than ever.

What opportunities does Illinois present for local artists?

What Illinois offers is a place where artists can find themselves eventually branching out and bringing those influences back.

What do you like about Illinois?

What I like most about Illinois is that it’s literally in the center of the country; we have the opportunity to take influence from either coast.

What is your favorite medium to work in?

My favorite medium would be acrylics and spray paint.

Where can people view and purchase your work?

With my website not being complete, I am available as Kas King on Facebook. You can like my Magnify Art Gallery page for updates with shows and events at my gallery. I am also on Instagram at BlakkBobbRoss.

What artist inspires you and why?

Bob Ross, Jean Michel Basquiat, KAWS, King Saladeen and Alec Monopoly inspire me. Each of these artists single-handedly blazed their own paths into being household names within the art world.