1. Why do you love pop art?
I am drawn to bold color, graphic design, and imagery that grabs your attention. I love that pop art takes familiar things (products, brands, objects) and gives a new way to see them.
2. What do you love about creating nostalgic art?
Being a child of the 80s, I grew up surrounded by some of the greatest movies, toys, video games, snacks, and pop culture moments ever created. Nostalgia is powerful because it connects people to memories they haven't thought about in years. When someone walks into my booth and immediately smiles because they recognize something from their childhood, that's pretty special.
3. How did you start painting, and what was your first job?
I've been making art for as long as I can remember. Drawing eventually led to painting, and painting led me to graphic design. Today, my work is a combination of disciplines. I approach paintings much like a designer approaches a layout—thinking about color, balance, typography, storytelling, and how to guide the viewer's eye.
My first job was working as an assistant greenskeeper. My first professional career was as a graphic designer for Eyetech Pharmaceuticals, an ophthalmology division of Pfizer. Looking back, both experiences taught me about craftsmanship, attention to detail, and showing up every day to do the work.
4. What do you love about the arts community in Alabama?
Alabama is where I've built my show schedule, exhibited my work, and connected with collectors. I've made lifelong friends through the arts community here. It's a supportive group who want to see each other succeed.
5. Favorite artists?
Keith Haring has always been one of my favorites. His work was bold, graphic, and instantly recognizable. I also appreciate Roy Lichtenstein's ability to elevate commercial imagery and, of course, Andy Warhol's impact on both art and culture.
6. Favorite book?
The Bible is my favorite book. I'm also a big Caleb Carr fan. The Alienist is probably my favorite novel.
7. Favorite restaurant?
In Alabama, I'd have to go with Helen in Birmingham. Chef Rob McDaniel has built something really special.
Anywhere in the country, it's John's of Bleecker Street in Manhattan. I'm a pizza guy, and in my opinion, it doesn't get better.
8. Favorite place?
The Hudson Valley of New York in the fall.
I lived there for the first 38 years, and it will always feel like home. The mountains, the small towns, the farms, the stone walls, the changing leaves—it's hard to describe unless you've experienced it.
Contact Info:
- Address: Tim Spanjer
2200 Farm Links Blvd
Sylacauga, AL 35151 - Website: www.artofspanjer.com
- Email: tim@artofspanjer.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/artofspanjer/