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What does it really take to transition from graffitti writer to full-time studio artist?
In this episode of Bench Talk, Tom Gerrard reconnects with Los Angeles-based artist Kristopher Raos for an in-depth conversation about making the leap from graffiti to a sustainable studio practice, the alchemy of materials, and why keeping your work accessible matters.
Kristopher hasn't painted graffiti in five years — not because he fell out of love with it, but because he channeled that same energy into his studio work. What started as a "more practical solution" to painting on the streets has become a thriving full-time career, complete with gallery representation, museum exhibitions, and a deeply experimental material practice.
In this conversation, Tom and Kristopher explore:
⚡️ Why the transition from street to studio felt natural (not like a compromise)
⚡️ How Kristopher deliberately left text behind to create distance from "street artist turned gallery artist" labels
⚡️ The materials he works with: cel vinyl, gouache, acrylic, and experimental processes
⚡️ Separating binders from pigments to achieve ultra-flat, saturated surfaces
⚡️ Why he doesn't use spray paint on canvas (and the lessons learned early on)
⚡️ The graffiti writer's "alchemy" mindset applied to traditional materials
⚡️ Looking at the LA landscape for source material instead of spots to paint
⚡️ Why Kristopher keeps his work affordable and accessible to multiple audiences
⚡️ The importance of pricing work so emerging collectors can participate
⚡️ Working with Charlie James Gallery and experimenting outside market pressures
⚡️ Having work in museum permanent collections (Buffalo AKG, California institutions)
⚡️ The reality of being a full-time artist in your 40s (and why it's the prime years)
This episode is a masterclass in intentional career-building, material experimentation, and staying true to your roots while evolving as an artist.
🎧 Listen on Spotify & Apple Podcasts
📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube
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HOST: Tom Gerrard
✦ IG | @artcareeracademy and @tom-gerrard
✦ Watch on Youtube | @artcareeracademy
✦ Website | artcareeracademy.com and tom-gerrard.com
GUEST: Kristopher Raos
✦ Instagram | @kristopher_raos
✦ Website | https://kristopherraos.com
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