Number three in our Art Conspirator series is the affable and original Andrew Tolentino. If this blog spoke with the tongue of The Dating Game, it would tell you that Andrew is a University of Texas graduate, a Wes Anderson fan, and an Aries. Another important detail: Andrew’s Facebook page quotes the ’80s synth pop greatness that was Men Without Hats. And that should prepare you.

What are your mediums and what is your creative process?

With a hodgepodge of plywood, found wood, skateboards, wood stain, acrylic paint, oil pastels, drawing pens, fiber paper, and whatever adhesive I’ve managed to scrounge up, I embark upon my garage with the optimistic vision and naïveté of a young boy. By the time I call it quits, I am usually covered in sawdust, blood, sweat, cynicism, and other evidential embellishments of manhood.

What does “guerilla-style” art mean to your work?

If I were to ask one of my pieces, “what does guerilla-style mean to you?” it would probably hang itself (from a tree in a public median). Unless I am working towards completing work for a show with a specific theme or definitive constraints, I am constantly thinking about actualizing a guerilla tactic with my art. Whether I am exploring opportunities with found wood or using a thumbtack to affix a fictional missing pet poster on a telephone pole, I am undoubtedly inspired by the idea of my day to day environment as an exhibition space where I can create a spectacle.

This year’s theme is “Deconstructed.” What facet of life would you like to deconstruct?

Having studied Racial Theory at UT, my work in college was heavily influenced by the concept of culture being created out of strife and injustice. Until recently, I feel like I have lost focus on Race related and Social issues. I am currently working on (re)deconstructing these concepts and allowing the mess to become the muse again. A conspiracy requires two or more persons. Who are your partners in whatever sneaky plot you are devising right now?

Without a doubt, I have to say that I have found a kindred sick sense of humor, passion for the thought and actualization of living, breathing art, and general inspiration to push the envelope in the following friends and fellow local artists:

-Photographer, Cara Smith
-Textile Artist, Corey Godfrey
-Photographer, World Traveler, Sally Glass
-The members of Prog-Rock act, Halcyon Nights
-The members of Alt-Country act Somebody’s Darling

Art Conspiracy 4: Deconstructed begins at 6:30 pm (sharp!) on Saturday, December 6, 2008. Bring lots of money and wear party shoes. And a parka – no heater in the venue, but that’s just another price we pay for good art and good times.