Seattle artist Joe Vollan offers up gems. His painting explore both sureal and natural worlds with technical precision and unbasic style. During these uncertain times of impending elections, bloated gas prices, and panic over the environment, we need artists like Joe voland to remind us of our own imagination. 

1. Who or What is your biggest artistic inspiration?

 Its hard to pick a single biggest inspiration, I’m inspired by everything from Saturday morning cartoons to Jean Miro. Movies and music have also had a huge influence on what my work has become today. I guess my first major influences were Illustrators like Maurice Sendak and Dr. Seuss.

2. What is your favorite local book store?

My favorite book store is easily Elliot Bay Bookstore. I like the people that work there and the atmosphere, especially the old creaky floors.

3. Where is the best place to view art in Seattle?         

It’s no secret that Seattle has some of the greatest art galleries and art spaces. I have to say some of the best art is in the places you least expect it. Sometimes you walk into a bar and sit with a beer and then notice that you are sitting below a rad painting, and then stand up and take a look around at the rest of the paintings. I like that about Seattle, everybody loves art and its everywhere. You can’t wait for a bus without seeing something interesting painted or on a sticker.

4. What is the best site or blog that we don’t know about yet?

I’m not much of a blog reader but I do read this site everyday, http://poochcafe. com/ its a comic about a dog named Poncho. He reminds me of my dog Otis. Its funny and cute and Paul gilligan has a good sense of humor.

 [Editor’s Note: As in the print magazine’s Artist Portfolio, the blog feature will showcase exceptional visual talent in all mediums. Please send submissions to ali @ rivetmagazine.org.]