Art & Life with Desert Punks: Brandon Epperson and Nikolas Williams

Today we’d like to introduce you to Desert Punks: Brandon Epperson and Nikolas Williams.

Please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
Desert Punks started as a simple “hashtag” via Instagram. We used this to tag our artwork and encouraged others to do the same. We quickly developed the idea to create a platform encouraging all forms of creation. We want to bridge the gap between all mediums to create a space where people can share their love of adventure and art. We strive to bring products that are a reflection of the surrounding community that supports small businesses and artists. The idea of “Desert Punks” has two parts; The first being the idea of how the desert is home to some of the toughest plants, animals, and humans being that exist. The second thing that comes to mind when you think about “Punk” is, of course, punk rock. The idea behind being a “Punk,” is in reference to individualism. We want everyone to feel comfortable expressing their passions and have them define the true meaning of being a Desert Punk.

Can you give our readers some background on your art?
Our art is a reflection of the community. Personally, our art is edgy, colorful, and usually has a message of “being free.” We like to spread this message through our T-shirts, stickers, pins, and prints. We also support other artists by giving them the opportunity of commissioned pieces, as well as establishing them an artist portfolio through our online art gallery.

What responsibility, if any, do you think artists have to use their art to help alleviate problems faced by others? Has your art been affected by issues you’ve concerned about?
The role of artists have changed over the years, but in many ways have stayed the same. Artists are still one part of society that is indispensable. These people take pride in their craft and bring joy to others without reading out of an instruction manual.

Sometimes world events may get overwhelming and drag us out of creative space and into a dark, depressing place. The sole purpose of an artist is to solidify the idea that the world is still beautiful. This is expressed through music, paintings, poems, dance, and everything in between.

What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
Following our Instagram (@DesertPunksCo), is the best way to join the artistic movement as well as see the variety of artist we showcase and promote. The biggest way someone can support us is simply by using the Hashtag, #desertpunks when posting a picture of their adventure or creation. We love seeing the community breaking away from their 9-5 to do something that brings them true joy. Our website Desertpunks.com is the best place to see what merchandise and artwork we have available.

Contact Info:

• Website: Desertpunks.com
• Email: desertpunksunited@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/desertpunksco/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/desertpunksAZ

Image Credit:
Brianna Epperson
Johnny Llyod

Getting in touch: VoyagePhoenix is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition, please let us know here.