Interview with Kevin Scott Cosme, Montclair Film Festival 2024 Artist

Introduction

The episode opens with the hosts expressing their excitement about interviewing Kevin Scott Cosme, the artist behind the Montclair Film Festival poster for its 2024 13th annual festival. They describe the poster as breathtaking and emotionally resonant, setting the stage for an engaging conversation.

Kevin’s Background

Kevin Scott Cosme, a Brooklyn native, shares his journey to New Jersey. After feeling the need for a change at the age of 30, he moved across the bridge to New Jersey, where he sought a fresh start. He attended SUNY Purchase for college, where he initially pursued illustration but shifted to graphic design based on his professor’s advice.

Early Artistic Influences

Kevin recounts his early experiences with art in Brooklyn, particularly how he was inspired by a neighbor involved in graffiti. This led to a friendly competition among peers, where they would share and critique each other’s work, fostering a creative environment.

Transition to Professional Art

After college, Kevin worked in the advertising industry in New York City, freelancing for various ad agencies. He reflects on the challenges of balancing his graphic design career with his passion for painting, often feeling constrained by client demands. It wasn’t until his early forties that he decided to focus more on his painting, leading to a significant turning point in his artistic career.

Discovery of Heather Carter

Kevin shares a serendipitous story about how he met Heather Carter, who would later manage him. After creating a painting for a mutual friend, Heather expressed interest in showcasing his work, which led to a successful exhibition. This connection opened doors for Kevin, allowing him to gain more visibility as an artist.

The Montclair Film Festival Poster

The hosts inquire about the creative process behind the Montclair Film Festival poster. Kevin explains that he was given creative freedom, with the only guideline being to avoid classical film tropes. He aimed to capture the emotional experience of watching a film, depicting a woman immersed in the cinematic experience.

Artistic Philosophy and Process

Kevin discusses his artistic philosophy, emphasizing the importance of emotional expression over technical perfection. He often incorporates personal narratives into his work, which adds depth and meaning. The hosts and Kevin also explore the idea of writing down thoughts and feelings as a way to manifest them in art.

Family and Film

The conversation shifts to Kevin’s family life, particularly his experiences watching films with his children. He shares the joy of introducing them to classic movies and the challenges of navigating age-appropriate content. The hosts relate to this experience, discussing their own family movie nights.

Future Aspirations

Kevin expresses his desire to continue growing as an artist and hopes to achieve a level of self-sustainability through his work. He aims to focus more on painting while managing the demands of graphic design.