Mitchell Craft is a Richmond-based digital media artist whose work is vibrant and subdued, familiar and surreal. His videos guide you into dream-like worlds, sometimes even submerging you in them through the use of virtual reality. Most recently, he released a zine called “Home Elusive,” which was featured in the CURRENT Book Fair at Valet Gallery. He made a music video for local artist McKinley Dixon, which was released on Tidal. We took the time for a short interview with Mitchell about his work, his influences, and his future projects.
April 18, 2018
Interview by Grace Hoffman
How would you describe your approach to art?
I like art that represents or plays with the reality we live in. I’m not a huge fan of art that tries to depict a whole new one.
How did you get into video and animation?
I started working with stop-motion animation when I was about 12 years old after watching The Science of Sleep by Michel Gondry. I have been working with animation and video ever since.
Do you have a favorite tool, and if so digital or physical?
The copy and paste function is really nice. I also really like industrial string.
What does your typical process look like?
It really depends on the idea, but a lot of what I do comes out of experimenting.
Your work ranges from virtual reality interactive web spaces to music videos. Do you have a favorite type of project to work on?
It’s hard to pick a favorite type because, when working in the digital realm, everything is interchangeable. I could start a project with the intention of a piece being in VR, but end up with a zine, or the other way around. You could even build a VR website where you read a zine and play an instrument with your feet!
Where do you find inspiration for your work?
Hmmmm, a good hill.
Familiar urban and natural spaces are common in your work. Would you say you’re more of a city person or a nature person?
I’m honestly still figuring it out. I’m not really sure, maybe that’s why both are present in my work?
Do you have any favorite artists or makers?
Where do you see yourself in the future? Do you have any new projects or ideas you are working on or avenues you would like to explore?
Good question. I don’t know, I might make a video game.
You can find more of Mitchell’s work on his vimeo, instagram, and website.