Mtn-world has given an interview to writer Alive from Getxo (Basque Country), who began painting in the mid-nineties and marked a time in Bilbao in 2000.
The birthplace of the punk group, Eskorbuto among others, Euskadi has always been famous for being the part of Spain where its inhabitants take their lives to the limit. And it’s there, where everyone knows who Alive is; an impulsive writer that life took its toll on. Alive’s daily struggle has led him to gradually regain some mobility and his desire to get better is an example for all of us to follow.
When did Alive begin to paint and within what context?
I started in 1995, mostly just to have a good time with my friends because back then there were no ideals or any sort of movement that we were painting for. There was already people painting though very few, but there was, and when I saw that new stuff it hit me so hard that I had to be a part of it.
I began painting with a friend, and we were both working on a drawing for three months! In the end we made something different to what we’d planned but it was still so great to have a nice time. Then eventually it became a competition in itself.
What is the thing you like most about graffiti?
Well, what I like the most, or what I liked, seeing as though I’m not linked to the graffiti world anymore, was meeting up with people. Talking about battles and the good vibes, although I was quite particular about painting.
Also, it was nice because you’d go to another city and they would tell you about what had happened there. Leaving Bilbao was like travelling to another continent.
What are you reasons for painting and to keep moving forward?
Above all, because the people who paint call me up to go painting. If I didn’t have anyone to go out with I’d stay at home. People who are dedicated to painting canvases have lost their motivation to go out and paint in the street.
Last but not least, could you give us some advice that life has taught you?
You must remember that in one second your life can change. Who would have thought that Alive would wind up in a wheel chair? But hey, here I am, with a smile on my face.
Looking back at all the suffering in the beginning, now it feels like everything is starting to get better and life is smiling back at me. But above all, I’m happy to have a perfect mental state and be here living reality.
Full interview here.
