Our guest is Gus Rey, an artist, muralist, and graphic designer from Denver, Colorado. Instead of wading into the creative waters slowly, with part-time or on-the-side work, Gus jumped head-first into turning his passion into his career. This commitment to his craft quickly led him into challenging & rewarding projects, like his recent mural: ‘Why Not Be Great’ which featured Denver Broncos cornerback & 2024 DPOY, Patrick Surtain II.
Follow Gus on Instagram @_GusRey
Check out his website to see all his amazing work — GusRey.com
We utilized our fancy new additions at TSS for this one, including the new in-studio TV, where Gus discovered that ChatGPT can describe his artwork & style even better than he can. From the red-tape difficulties of bigger projects, to the differences between making a career (“living”) in stand-up comedy versus in visual art, to the complicated relationship between graffiti writers & muralists, we try to get down to the nitty-gritty of what it means to be a muralist.
Thankfully our producer Chris keeps us on track while we jump around Gus’ story & his art. We dream BIG on this one, because why not?! How big, you ask? How's the Hoover Dam, multi-stage-mosaic mural, over 1 million sq ft of spray paint, sound for a BIG project? Surely some funding for paint was included in that big, beautiful bill Trump keeps bragging about?? Right?!
If he starts three years ago, Gus can have it finished up for the 250th anniversary of America.
Gus has a generous perspective toward life adorned with a humorous lens. I am grateful Gus came on our silly show. I hope you all enjoy this conversation as much as we did.
Bonus content, EATIN’ w/ Gus, & vaulted episodes available — Patreon.com/InTALLerable
FO & BW
