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Interview with graffiti artist Zest

2021. Feb. 11. | Interviews

The graffiti artist Zest, who mostly works in Szeged, became interested in graffiti at an early age, in elementary school. According to him, this activity is one of the most versatile things in the world, and it gives freedom in the daily grind.

How long have you been painting?

I was already interested in graffiti in primary school, I started painting more seriously around 2012-2013.

Where did the stage name come from?

My name Zester735 comes from the English word 'zealous', my number is a mosaic of my birthday date.

How did this style develop and what would you call it?

Soft-Wild if you understand, I try to be as wild as possible, but I love letters that are clearly visible. I've always liked the wildstyle drawings the best, but there's a lot of chrome-feka in the city. I've been wearing them since I was little, my style has been shaped by both.

Zest
Zest

Who or what inspires you most to create?

Among foreigners, DoesLoveLetters, Sofles, HelioBray. Among the domestic writers, Rok, Mone, Oryon, Pilot, Boros, Harek were clearly the greatest inspiration.

Is there a graffiti group you are a member of?

TMK, WBG, BC

Illegal or legal painting?

For a couple of years, I've only been pushing it to the limit, but I don't shy away from the other extreme either.

Over the years, have you had any confrontations with the authorities?

There was, but that's all.

Do you see graffiti as a hobby or a livelihood?

As a profession. I don't make money from it, I like to paint my own stuff the most, but it's an honor to be asked to do a job.

There are quite expensive financial costs for creating a single drawing. How can you finance these?

I work, I buy a can with my salary.

Was there a part of your life that made you feel like you were quitting for good?

No. I'd rather try to be current and do as many drawings as possible.

What do you think about graffiti?

It's one of the most versatile things in the world, I love doing it and I want to do it as long as possible.

Zest

How do you see the current situation of the subculture here in Hungary?

I see fewer and fewer interested young people, but the old people and we are still pushing. May God preserve our good habit!

Most memorable blowout?

There have been a lot of good jams, but maybe I should mention the FilaGraffJams and the Gödör Farewell Jam in Szeged.

Zest

What does this subculture give you?

Freedom in the whirlwind of everyday life, many unforgettable experiences, and strength for every difficult moment.

What would you say to those who are just getting to know the genre?

Don't get caught! First, put the drawing in the notebook, the rest will follow.

Who would you like to thank?

I would like to thank my team, my father and all the writers who have ever helped me get ahead and trusted me! ROK, PION, JUNK, TAC, BOROS, MONE, PILOT, HAREK, ORYON, FESH, FATJIM.

HELLO
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Zest

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