Back in April of 2019, I visited a local cafe called Nellie Rae’s Kitchen. There I saw an image and a magical incantation that immediately drew my attention as it called out to me from the surface of the barn. On it was the message, “Love Your Life.” Since I already do, it seemed an ideal photo op. At the time I appreciated the aesthetics and sentiment since I am all about love and heart to heart connection. It never occurred to me find out who created it.
Fast forward a few months later and I am in Doylestown, PA doing my FREE HUGS activity and I notice a round sign with a heart in the middle of it and the word LOVE inscribed on its surface, attached to the fence in front of Starbucks. It also had a link to a Facebook page. This time, when I got home, I checked it out and wondered about the identity of this artist who calls himself 7 (like the number) and the Love Renegade. The first nom de plume, I wasn’t sure about, but anyone who calls themselves a Love Renegade sounded like a member of my tribe.
When I reached out, I discovered that he is a young man with an assortment of body piercings including ear gauges with other small earrings suspended from them, as well as multiple tattoos of his own design. He has buzz-cut shorn blond hair and an infectious smile. As we sat chatting at The Zen Den that I have dubbed ‘my office away from home and like Cheers where everybody knows your name,’ I learned that he was also a dancer and poet. Definitely a creative soul. As it turns out, despite this being his first time there, he discovered that he had gone to High School with one of the baristas. How cool is that?
His vision is to be a positive influence through his artistry, no matter the form. From what I can tell, he has met that goal.
You refer to yourself with the number 7. What is the origin of that name?
Seven has been my nickname since middle school, originally derived from the 7 deadly sins. However, as my journey progressed I began identifying with the number seven as an internal guide as well as a spiritual connection with the universe. For example, I was born at 7 am on the nose. Also, I believe the number helps coordinate my direction.
Who is the Love Renegade?
Seven is to Bowie as Love Renegade is to Ziggy. ‘Love Renegade’ is a vehicle to provide artwork solely with the intent of spreading love, empowering independence, strength and a splash of rebellion. The Love Renegade has grown a reputation of installing public artworks mostly without permission. I certainly understand the risk and dangers involved, however, people need to see the love, god damn it!!
Has art been part of your life for a long time?
Doodled a little as a child, but nothing serious until 2007. When I made a commitment to pursue my artistic endeavors as a professional Tattoo Artist. I don’t believe I was born with a natural gift, however, passion comes in many forms on a pallet of mediums beyond my wildest dreams. If you trust yourself in experiencing new things, you can eventually experience the things you’ve created in your mind without sounding like that old guy at the park who talk to pigeons.
Formally educated or naturally talented or both?
Self-taught, honestly. Youtube has all the answers.
How did you get inspired to share your art with the world?
Graffiti, it’s a gateway through the underworld with its rattling shadows of where no one has a voice, but everyone is screaming and I’m just painting hearts but on a similar frequency.
Where can they be seen? Is it just here in Philly area or have you expanded your canvas?
My canvases are bodies, walls, boards, cars, and more drywall than you could ever need. I have painted in Germany to Amsterdam to Paris and most of the Western Hemisphere of the United States. Currently, I’m working closely with Bucks County to really give back to my community.
How would you like people to feel when they see your Love images and what would you like to see them do as a result?
Art is subjective in nature, but the message is clear- LOVE YOUR LIFE! Keep love as your main focus and you shall have peace and a joyful perspective on life.
I know that you and your family emigrated from Ukraine. Did that shape you in some way?
Living in Ukraine during the fall of the Soviet Union definitely had its influence on my perspective. Some good, some bad, all in a photo album.
Does what you do help you stay sane and vertical in these particularly challenging times?
I meditate and that helps me clear the noise. As long as I breathe heavy, there is no need to get upset or worked up, because it will pass quicker in calmer waters.
Please tell us about 30 Days of Love.
30 Days of Love is about installing a 24 x 24-inch board every day all over PA that says “love your life all day,” with a big heart!
In our conversation today, you mentioned that you want to express power with your artwork. Can you clarify what you meant by that?
I believe that it has a lot of power especially when it is coming from the right place. In a world filled with so much hatred, it’s easy to forget how powerful love can be and I am interested in sparking it!
How can people support your work?
I’m always looking for opportunities to paint and leave love for the world to see. Otherwise the
Countryside Gallery in Newtown, PA carries a few of my paintings, but commissioned paintings are what funds the Love Renegade since it’s more of a “gift” style artwork.
Is there anything else you want to share?
All images: Credit to The Love Renegade
AMAZING!! I love this article 🙂 I also have a song called “Love Renegade” by Max Bujold & The Milestones, which matches the theme of the Love Renegade in this story. Hope you enjoy the song LOVE RENEGADE <3 !!!! (Link below): https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/maxbujoldandthemilestones/love-renegade