Meet Kaloust Guedel | Visual Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kaloust Guedel and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kaloust, why did you pursue a creative career?
Growing up in an artistic family, I was constantly immersed in creativity, which naturally shaped my path. Art became the only way for me to feel complete and fulfilled in my life. For me, it’s always been about finding out who I am, communicating my inner world, and making connections—first with myself, and then with others. The creative process has been my way of exploring not just the world around me but also my own place within it. Over the years, I’ve come to understand that art isn’t just about creating objects; it’s about creating dialogues—between me, my viewers, and the broader human experience. It’s been a lifelong journey of growth and discovery, where the act of creating is both a personal calling and a way to contribute to a larger cultural conversation.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
From an early age, I realized that to be a successful artist, it’s not just about mastering the craft—it’s about understanding the world around me and, perhaps more importantly, understanding myself. I chose not to attend a traditional art school, where the curriculum often focuses on established techniques and formal structures. Instead, I opted to study various schools of thought. This approach allowed me to explore diverse philosophies and methodologies, drawing inspiration from different art movements, philosophies, and intellectual traditions. By exposing myself to a wide range of perspectives, I was able to develop a more fluid and unconventional approach to my art, unbound by traditional constraints. My aim was to find a more personal and dynamic voice in my work. I became convinced that for an artist, being open-minded, curious, and inquisitive is crucial.

When we talk about success, it’s important to approach it from a broader perspective. For an artist, success has two dimensions: one is success in the studio, and the other is success outside of it. In 2015, I introduced the Excessivism movement in LA Artcore Gallery, which expanded into fashion and music over the following years. The word ‘Excessivism’ was even included in over a dozen English language dictionaries, further cementing its impact on contemporary culture.

Was it easy? I don’t believe there is such a thing as ‘easy’ or ‘difficult’ in this journey. The key is to start working, and at some point, the work will naturally evolve and come to fruition. It’s about dedication and unwavering commitment to the process. Challenges will arise, but rather than obstacles, I see them as integral parts of growth. There are always moments of uncertainty, but it’s through the act of working—of continually pushing forward—that I’ve been able to navigate through and ultimately find fulfillment.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting, I’d probably start by taking him to Disneyland to relive that carefree childhood magic. We’re lucky to live in LA, a place filled with incredible spots that attract people from all over the world. After Disneyland, I’d definitely head to Universal Studios for some thrills, and we’d make sure to visit the beautiful beaches to soak up the sun and relax. Of course, I’d also take him to some of the city’s world-class museums and galleries to explore the vibrant art scene.

When it comes to food, I’d be all about pizza—every day. There’s just something about the fresh bread that’s hard to resist.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to my parents, who both passed away just a few years ago. They were my greatest supporters and mentors, always encouraging me in all my endeavors from a young age. Growing up in an artistic family, they nurtured my creativity and provided the environment that allowed me to explore and develop my craft. Their love, belief in me, and dedication to helping me grow as both a person and an artist shaped the course of my life.

Website: https://www.zdom.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaloustguedel

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaloust-guedel-7b8b6519/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kaloust.guedel

Image Credits
Corey Burns, Ani Tadevosyan