Justin “JUST” Simmons

Can you tell us about your journey from graffiti to canvas art?

Transitioning from graffiti to canvas has been a challenging yet rewarding experience. Spray painting is fast-paced — you’re working on uneven surfaces with cracks, textures, and unpredictable conditions. On the other hand, mediums like acrylic and oil require a slower, more patient approach. Learning to control a paintbrush and understanding how each paint behaves took time, and that adjustment wasn’t always easy. It pushed me to grow as an artist.

How did growing up in Muskogee, Oklahoma, shape your artistic voice?

It wasn’t so much the city itself but the era I grew up in that left a mark on me. The rise of Hip Hop culture during that time was full of creativity and expression. Movies like Beat Street and Wild Style, along with the TV show Good Times, laid the blueprint for how I saw the world and helped shape my identity as a painter.

What spiritual elements do you incorporate into your work, and how do they influence your process?

I draw a lot from Christianity as a foundation for my work. Biblical stories, themes of redemption, faith, and morality give me a deep well of inspiration to explore. They often guide the mood, message, or symbolism in my paintings.

Your paintings blend street style with fine art — how do you balance these two worlds?

I look to artists like Frank Morrison and Kevin “WAK” Williams for inspiration. They’ve shown how to fuse the raw energy of street art with the polish of fine art. Using bold, saturated colors and urban influences helps me keep that street vibe alive while elevating the work into gallery spaces.

How has digital art impacted your creative practice alongside traditional painting?

Digital tools have become a helpful part of my process. I often use Photoshop or design software to enhance my pieces for prints, books, or promotional material. When I have extra time, I like to experiment with Adobe Flash animation to create visuals that promote my shows in a more dynamic way.

What artists or movements outside of graffiti have inspired your work?

Music is a major influence. Hip Hop artists like Wu-Tang Clan and MF DOOM, jazz legends, and gospel musicians all play a part in fueling my creativity. I often listen to music while I work — it sets the tone and gets me in the zone before I even pick up a brush.

Do you see your art as a form of activism or social commentary?

Absolutely — my work touches both. I use my art to highlight social and political issues, creating a space for conversation and reflection. I also enjoy collaborating with artists from different communities and cultures, using our collective voices to speak on what matters.