Born In South Korea, Cryptik Is Raised In Southern California

Cryptik Signature Style Of Calligraphy

Cryptik, a Los Angeles-based artist, creates works of art that explore the realm of spirituality and consciousness. His iconic depictions of deities and spiritual leaders, along with his signature style of calligraphy, can be seen throughout Los Angeles, adorning the urban landscape and galleries alike.

Your art is in a lot of different mediums, when did you transition into street art? Was there anything specific that drew you to share your art with the city?

Growing up, I was obsessed with everything graffiti and knew it was something I wanted to do. Unfortunately, I didn’t know anyone else who shared the same interest, so I kept it in the books for years. It wasn’t until I actually picked up a can that I realized it wasn’t my gift, so I’ve stuck to a paintbrush ever since. I think moving into “street art” was a natural progression…or the next best thing for me. It was also a more efficient way to share my ideas with the public at large. For me, the focus has always been on staying active in the streets. Galleries have their place, but I think it’s more important to reach folks that don’t necessarily visit “art galleries.” I want the art to be unavoidable and in-your-face as you drive into work the next morning. It’s like a glitch in the matrix…affecting people’s reality in a way, even if it’s only for a moment. It’s also my way of giving back to the community.

Hieroglyphic text are everywhere in your art, what are you writing in your ‘Cryptik’ calligraphy?

Well, it’s actually just my own stylized version of English. It’s sort of a combination of several Ancient scripts such as Sanskrit, Hebrew, Arabic, and Hindi with a twist of gang graffiti/cholo writing. I feel that many Ancient scripts share similarities and might have all come from an even earlier source. In those times, words held magical powers and were considered sacred because it was the written word of “God.” I think subconsciously, that’s what I’m trying to tap into. It’s always been a vibration thing for me if that makes any sense. I don’t really know where it comes from; I’m just trying to channel it the best I can. Maybe it’s in my DNA… Typically, I like to write out Buddhist/Hindu Mantras, quotes, or poems depending on the piece.

Who are the artists you are most influenced by?

Hmm…too many. One of my all-time favorite artists is Andy Goldsworthy. Doodles the truth! Another person who’s been a huge influence on me as an artist is VCJ. He’s the one who did all of the Powell Peralta Graphics during the BonesBrigade Era back in the ’80s. To me, those were the hardest skateboard graphics, ever! Hands down. And, I definitely can’t forget my fellow Scribes men out there…The Godfather: Chaz Bojorquez, RETNA, and Usugrow, to name a few. They’ve always kept me humble. RESPECT.

Please elaborate on the “Cryptik Movement”

The “CRYPTIK MOVEMENT” is really just a way of giving people a broader perspective; a different way to see their reality. I think it’s safe to say that no one person or institution has it all figured out. It’s about finding truth and beauty in all philosophies, religions, cultures, belief systems, etc. That’s essentially what it’s all about, so if the art/message resonates with you, join the MOVEMENT!

What do you want to achieve with your life as an artist?

Man…honestly, I just want to try to do something good for humanity during the short time I’m on this planet. I think life is too short to just sit around. I don’t ever want to say, “I wish I could’ve done something with my life.” I just want to do my part to help balance out all the evil and ignorance that exists in the world the best way I know how, which is through art. In the end, I’m just happy doing what I do, and just as importantly, trying to enjoy the ride.

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