Khazm pioneered the Seattle Chapter of the Universal Zulu Nation as leader, activist, artist and support. His influence in the Hip hop community to date is unparalleled.
What artist movement has been particularly influential in your development KK: My art is influenced by life and inspired by many artistic and social movements in history and her story, however I'd say Hip Hop is the movement/culture I identify most. Advertently, Hip Hop is shaped and comprised of artistic movements and cultures internationally tracing from the beginnings of civilizations, so I suppose it could be interchangeable and all encompassing.. comics are cool too.
How/ Why did you start writing Graffiti? KK: It was either writing and rapping or banging and getting caught up. The art of deciphering urban hieroglyphics and codes is one that chose me. I merely gave into it's beckoned call.
There are a lot of kids that have aspirations of being artists, what advice would you have for them in pursuing this? KK: Only you are responsible for your success or lack of. Have plan Bs, Cs and Ds when it comes to sustaining yourself. Remain true to your craft and do it only because you love it.
King Khazm has influenced a great many Seattle Artists to pursue their dreams, it is a great honor to show his work and history of Seattle’s graffiti and Hip Hop scene.
Please look for future interviews from artist showing at this years Folk Life’s Surface Elements show. More info on the upcoming event; LINKED HERE
