Meet Spliff And Bezel | Star Reapers

We had the good fortune of connecting with Spliff And Bezel and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Spliff and Bezel, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
I feel like my original characters really stand out to people and I’m often told it reminds them of something else, usually nostalgic, which I take as something good because I also grew up on the same types of influences they reference like Pokemon and Adventure Time. I’m often told that I’m creating stuff they’ve never seen before with the embroidery layering and three dimensional shapes and fabrics. I continue to push my limits with my creativity.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is based around two characters, Spliff and Bezel. They are a duo, a scythe which is called Spliff and Bezel his beholder who can create whatever form it wants from itself. Cryptid creatures who travel thru dimensions.

Pen and pencil were the way I’d scribble illustrations of these characters at first, then embroidery entered the picture and I began taking my designs and stitching the two together. I’ve since made embroidered apparel pieces, embroidered art stretch on canvas, embroidered and sewn sculptural pieces and even public art work. January 2025 I exhibited my first solo show at the Metro Gallery in downtown Pomona, California. All my experiences from working around so many artists and galleries as well as my pursued career with embroidery helped materialize what my art has become now. It definitely wasn’t easy as there was a lot of struggles I had to overcome that have helped me grow from balancing life, work and a passion for art. That balance is delicate because art is not always profitable and working doesn’t always fuel creativity. I’m closer to a balance currently which I’m proud of. I have no regrets and I hope my art and story can inspire others to follow their dreams and shoot for the stars!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Downtown Pomona, California is a hub for creativity. Firstly I would recommend these galleries: The Alley Gallery, The DA, Overspray Gallery, The Kreative Spot and Artists in the Alley. Every second Saturday is Artwalk night and the city is alive with food and art vendors, art exhibitions, and live music at venues like The Fox Theatre, The Glass House, The Haven, Characters, The Basement and The VLounge. If dancing is more your vibe then there’s Odanavans or WishYouWereHere and if you want to chill and play arcade games while having a drink The Paradox arcade bar is the spot. Strolling thru downtown Pomona you’ll find large wood panels along a fenced area where artists from all over come to a curated outdoor public gallery and create. You’ll often spot a Spliff and Bezel piece hanging around there. Come out and enjoy it for yourself, every second Saturday.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to definitely give a shoutout to the city of Pomona, California for providing so many opportunities for me to learn and grow and express myself thru my art. There are many circles of creatives there and I’m grateful for the community there. Special shoutout to The Alley Gallery for countless opportunities and support.

Website: https://SpliffandBezel.com

Instagram: @spliffandbezelofficial

Image Credits
TawnyOneLove