Artist of the Month - @marc_ua

Story time: It’s the ’90s. A young Marc lies in front of an old 4:3 tube TV, watching MTV. By today’s standards, iconic music blasts from the speakers, creating the perfect soundtrack for Marc’s doodling. Nearby sits a small action figure, complete with an exposed brain and bullets slung over its shoulder; the epitome of cool at the time.

“I’ve been doing the same stuff since I was a kid, pretty much. Parked in front of the TV, drawing dinosaurs, monsters, and superheroes. My art style hasn’t evolved much, but to be honest, that world is way more fun than the real world.”

Fast forward 30 years: MTV has been replaced by modern media services, as well as playing in bands himself, and Marc’s taste in music has come full circle, landing squarely in hardcore territory. But luckily, Marc’s quirky, colorful, straightforward art style remains just as it was back in the ’90s.

StickerApp: Hi Marc, and congratulations on being the June Artist of the Month. Tell us a little about yourself: Who is Marc UÅ and what are some of your dreams in life?

Marc UA: Thank you so much! I grew up in the Hardcore music scene in Umeå (UÅ for short), Sweden, during the 90s. I make big murals, record covers, and shirts for artists, and original art for anyone who wants it. I love art and music, I live simple, and I strive for the uncomplicated.

StickerApp: So nice! What, or who, drives you forward as an artist and creator? What are your biggest inspiration/s?

Marc UA: Art is my way of communicating, and I want my work in other peoples hands and homes. A piece of my work is worth nothing to me until it leaves my studio. If I can make someone happy, emotional, or stronger by drawing for them, my life is complete. I've always loved dinosaurs, aliens, weird flowers, ancient Egyptian mythology, and very, VERY, angry screamy music.

StickerApp: Love this! What is your number 1 advice for those starting their creative journey?

Marc UA: Show your work to people and spread everything you do as soon as you can! Learn to see your work through the eyes of others. Don't shy away from showing your work because "it's not perfect"; it helps you grow as a creator, and will also give you thicker skin.

StickerApp: How would you define your style, and what are your favorite technique/s?

Marc UA: Simple and direct. I find that the less detail I put into it, the better is communicates. I love bold colors, and I still draw the same way I did as a kid. As for favorite techniques: markers and ink, always. Paint and brushes second, but I usually put a lot of pressure into my lines, so I prefer a harder instrument.

StickerApp: Why do you choose StickerApp as your sticker partner in crime?

Marc UA: Easy: Because StickerApp makes the best stickers I've ever laid my hands on, and also offers the most alternatives. I really love the mirror material with it's gray chrome metal look *Ping, my Thank You card. Shiny! No, but seriously, I wouldn't choose any other sticker manufacturer right now.

StickerApp: How do you use stickers for your business/personal brand?

Marc UA: As giveaways, basically anytime I meet a friend. I also include them in customer orders, when meeting new people, in public restrooms, etc.

StickerApp: What are your goals for the future?

Marc UA: I'd love to do even more art shows, exhibitions, and murals for businesses! That is maxde out. And, I need to add, out of the cosmic soup of randomness: Hardcore is the greatest subculture in the world. Hardcore is forever.

Thanks for the chat, Marc. To keep up with Marc UÅ, head over to his Instagram, @marc.ua.