HOW MIAMI-BASED ARTIST SKOTT MARSI IMPLEMENTS HIS CREATIVE INFLUENCE AND EDGY FLAIR FAR BEYOND THE SCOPE OF CANVAS.

“Money on my mind,” mixed-media hand painting by Skott Marsi in collaboration with London graphic designer Gabriele Soi PHOTO: BY SKOTT MARSI IN COLLABORATION WITH GABRIELE SOI

Artist, muralist, digital creator and fashion designer Skott Marsi (@skottmarsi) has become a vital organ within Miami’s ever-growing creative anatomy. Honing his craft as a young child growing up in New York, Marsi has since grown into a symbol of creative intelligence while mastering a unique skill that communicates the roots of classical artistry with a contemporary edge. His ubiquitous influence has quickly impacted the community while spreading his vibrant visions all over the gilded city that he views as a blank canvas. Wide-eyed and open-minded, we chat with the trailblazer as he touches on his work, expresses gratitude for his accomplishments and relishes in the many moments that have paved the way to where he stands now.

How did your art career begin?

My art career began as a young child. I created my own comic book and even started my own clothing company with some childhood friends. However, the real birth started when I was in college and had the opportunity to study in Spain. Focusing on art, art history and architecture, the abroad experience exposed me to the depths of the contemporary art world and pushed me to pursue my own style of art, merging a contemporary feel with modern-day street art.

Skott Marsi painting Mickey on the exterior of a Wynwood Wall BY PATRICIA LANDA

What inspires your work?

My inspiration mostly stems from life experiences, social topics, the power of one’s mind, psychology and the beautification of life through artistic processes. I believe that art has the power to heal its beholder, so I create from a place that will do just that. Aside from this, what inspires me the most is receiving feedback on how something that I’ve created held the power to connect with another so deeply, that it helped them navigate through mental health issues or personal hardships. Connecting with my collectors and viewers is where my true intentions lie.

As an artist, why did you choose Miami to call home? What about the city speaks to you and your work?

I discovered Miami’s Wynwood Arts District back in 2012 during Art Basel. The rugged, beat-down, industrial neighborhood had some sort of magical energy to it that I connected deeply with. Growing up in a construction family in New York, I saw Miami’s future potential and decided to move here during this visit. The architecture, the beautiful beaches, oceans and especially the weather have been motivational to me and the art I create.

Marsi among his paintings in his Miami Design District studio. Since 2018, all art purchases from Marsi come with an NFT. BY MEL HOPE