We had the good fortune of connecting with Evander Banks AKA Eckofatl and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Evander Banks, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Honestly, I was tired of making other people’s dreams come true. Whether it was a individually owned private business or a corporate entity or an institution, I was making the impossible happen daily. So I thought to myself what if I did that for myself, as rhetorical as that sounds.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m a 90s baby so I was born in 1990 flat! The ironic thing about my work is that I have had professional artists tell me that my work reminded them of work from my grandparents’ generation but with a contemporary twist because I’m just 30 years old. I’m most proud of my work that bridges the world’s between graffiti, street art, and fine art, I’m also most excited about that type of work. I got to where I am today professionally by hustling, point blank period, and no it was not easy. I think I overcame the challenges along the way just by being creative with solutions honestly and being open with people around me, people I had access to. I think a big lesson I learned along the way was to not undervalue myself, The world is filled with air-headed confident people so there’s nothing wrong with having a little confidence. In the great words of Andre 3000 ”the South has something to say”!

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
I always say to family and friends visiting Atlanta, it’s like a circle with a cross in it, so there’s like different quadrants if you can help it spend a day in each one. Also try to spend some time right outside of the perimeter because honestly a lot of that is still a part of Atlanta’s appeal. I couldn’t make a list if I wanted, I’ve tried lol.

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?
Stephanie Kolpy, GSU Printmaking Lecturer at Ernest G Welsh School of Art and design Michael Gillies, GMC Studio Art Lecturer Adam Wagner, Studio Art Technician at GSU Ernest G Welsh School of Art and design William Downs, a working contemporary artist in Atlanta

Website: Eckofatl.com

Instagram: Eckofatl