As someone who has travelled all around the world, why did you decide to plant roots in St. Augustine?

I went to college in St. Augustine a few years ago, many of my friends are from here and have begun to start families here. I have lived in cities and enjoy certain parts of it, but I also love the small community aspect here. The ability to cook dinners with friends, surf little waves, and ultimately never have to stress all that much is pretty inviting. I like how I can participate as much or as little as I want. I can leave and travel for six months and come back and it’s not a big deal. I love my little crew here and all the talent here.

What is your creative process?

My creative process is pretty unorthodox, I may paint 20 paintings in a couple months and then not paint for 3 months, or I may only draw a little for a while. If I were to set a schedule up, I feel like I wouldn’t make as much as I do this way. The creative dry spells lead to some insane creative “dumps,” and it’s in those times I get really excited and want to make things. I feel like I never hear someone say that sometimes they don’t want to make stuff and just want to cruise for a bit or to be left alone, but I do and it’s in those times that I feel like I get to regenerate and look forward to being in my studio making stuff and doing it for myself.

Where are some of the most interesting places you’ve painted murals?

Sri Lanka was awesome. Tokyo, Japan. Sydney, Australia. Andros, Greece.

What do you want people to know about Florida?

Florida has much more to it than close-minded politicians, elderly people, bizarre tragic headlines, and amusement parks. It has the most gorgeous springs and it is relatively affordable — and affordable for young people to start creative businesses. There’s occasional surf, beautiful beaches, and it’s a short flight to the Caribbean or Central America.

What’s your favorite thing about St. Augustine?

I love the people and I love the quality of life. It’s a classic little beach town. Like anywhere, it’s seeing its fair share of investors and growth, but there are still little secret pockets that keep me here.

What are the best hidden gems in town?

I love the parks here, and I feel like lots of people don’t see them when they visit. Anastasia State Park is gorgeous. I also love Hornski’s — grab a beer or a La Croix and pick out some records and Rob will play them for you; there is also skeeball.