1on1 with Tim Maxwell (maxwellinked)

Join us in this exclusive interview with Maxwellinked , the coercer of lines and one of the earliest artists on Tezos.

Jul 31, 2022

We recently interviewed an artist that is well known in the Tezos NFT space and someone with an extremely unique style. He has amassed a family of 1462 collectors and his work can be found in worldwide exhibitions including The Medici Collection.

Join us below to find out more about Tim Maxwell in this 1on1 where we let the artist convey their story and let the art speak for itself. Check out his Objkt page, Super Rare and Link Tree below to become mesmerised by his work.

https://objkt.com/profile/timmaxwell/created (Tezos work)

https://superrare.com/maxwellinked is where you can find two auctions that are currently live.

https://twitter.com/maxwellinked (Twitter)

Why do you do what you do?

I have a physical addiction to this, and it’s kept me alive.

What’s your background and have you always pursued art?

I started drawing at 18 after I received my first tattoo. Subsequently and briefly becoming a tattoo artist. Then I chose academia and received an MFA from SVA in NYC finishing in 2004. I have drawn essentially every day since. There are voids, but they are dark. Drawing has been consistently present and life saving.

What was your reaction to being collected by cozomo medici?

Cozomo has visionary eyes and a completely independent taste to have bought my work on Tezos last year and I was profoundly humbled and floored when he collected some of my pieces.

What’s integral to the work of your art?

Not taking breaks and truly following what I want to do. This means much experimentation.

What has been the hardest section to draw by hand in any of your works?

Nothing. I developed a muscle memory for this. A spill does piss me off though.

What role do you think an artist has in society?

This is probably consistent throughout history. But, to communicate at a deeper level than what is created while not boring oneself and the viewer. Being honest is crucial here. It’s an impossible technique to teach, and vital to visceral communication. One must possess this. And, feel art history has been written with the understanding of this.

What has been a seminal experience for you?

Two divorces and being poor my entire adult life.

Has your practice changed/ evolved over time and how?

No. I draw everyday. But, I have become very good at avoiding inner noise.

We love this old work by you. Was this your earliest style?

Yes.

https://t.co/kEt74I4yX

We love these old works too. What is the motivation behind the portrayal of people which we often see in your current works ?

Thank you! The shadow entities or silhouettes? They’ve always served as my shorthand for conveying any human condition involving alienation and anxiety. They exist, but don’t. They must be invented.

https://museemagazine.com/culture/culture/art-out/kenosis

A Shadow at Shadow's Length (Wall Mat)

Whilst Falling We Thought it Best Not to Think Too Much

What is the oldest piece of yours you still have?

I can share two tattoos I created on my legs if cool. They aren’t the oldest, but oldest in that they are the most committed and visceral.

What’s your strongest memory of your childhood?

Not reading

What’s your scariest experience?

A suicide attempt

What’s your most embarrassing moment?

Too many to count

What’s your favourite artwork?

Jan Van Eyck’s Last Judgement

What artists inspire you ?

Ideas and at one point literature. Now only ideas inspire, by authentic people with true inner thoughts.

Do you ever make an error while drawing and is this easy to fix or does it call for a total redo?

No. I’ll fuck up the whole drawing, but no errors.

How did Celtic illuminated manuscripts come into your life and what is your go to punk song ?

My first tattoo was Celtic knot work. Do They Owe Us A Living by Crass , Kill The Poor by the Dead Kennedy’s , and In My Eyes By Minor Threat

Can the artistic life be lonely? If it is what do you do to counteract it?

My threshold for solitude is abnormally high. I thrive in this state.

What do you dislike about the art world?

The NYC art world? It is too cerebral and relies on the kissing ass technique. But, I could add the 50% cut and usual 10% collector discount isn’t conducive to living in NYC. Or, dealers have a penchant for blocking most artists from collectors. Autonomy as an artist is illusory in this world, manufactured brainwashing more than real.

Are there any flaws you pick out in your own work ?