Meet ZON Carvalho | Artist

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

Hi ZON, do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?
Life Was Meant To Be Awesome.

It was back in 1996, as I was going through a divorce, and life was confusing and so full of choices.

One day, me and some friends were driving though a ruff neighborhood, it was mid morning on a regular week day.
As we traveled through those blocks, a little more alert then normal, I started to think about the choices they all made in life, I wondered how did they get here, how did it get so bad, when did it start?

I was observing all those faces and the pain reflected all around them in that environment of broken dreams.
I knew the next choices I was about to make would determine the quality of my future.

Thats when the music got louder in the car, and the singer blared out ” YOU DON’T HAVE TO LIVE IN FEAR , LIFE WAS MEANT TO BE AWESOME”.

The light finally turned green, and at that moment, as I looked forward, I saw a park, so beautiful and green, the sun looked warm and inviting, I knew I was choosing the right path as we drove away.

Since that day, this phrase has stayed with me, for 29 years I have created many designs, merch, paintings and the hashtag #lifewasmeantobeawesome one or 2 “t”s.

My intention is to invite the viewer to feel thet warmth of the sun like I did that day, maybe through the brightness of my colors and the boldness of my shapes and lines, always inviting you to pursue your path, to believe its possible.

As I boldly have dared to do it my self, with my art. I believe that “Life Was Meant To Be Awesome”. We just gotta act like it.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Zonhq is an Art and life style brand that makes contemporary art, inspired by street culture, to foster a sense of self love, and empowerment

I was influenced by the street art in São Paulo, Brazil, where I was born and raised.

I use acrylic, spray paint and markers, because of the vibrancy of their colors and  fast drying time,  allowing  me to create multiple layers of colors and textures that simulate an urban vibe.

I start by lightly sketching, covering the surface with colors until the shapes start to reveal themselves, and the story begins to form.

The main subjects are usually figurative and iconic images, charged with color and movement. My intention is to overwhelm the viewer with energy and color, a visual punch to the chest that will take your breath away.

I want to remind the viewer of the energy and power we all have within,  and to spark joy and create excitement.

My art is fueled by the thought that life was meant to be enjoyed and celebrated, as is illustrates the experiences and stories we all have in common.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Food would be: Houstons, Pita Jungle, Blue Wasabi, Fogo de Chao, LGO, Go Check out Rosevelt, Galleries and Shops. Mesa Arts Center, Phoenix Museum of Art, All the shops and Galleries on Grand Ave. Head out to Sguarro lake and explore, Hike comeback or other trails not too far.

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 thank my self, for being such a stubborn and delusional person, and to believe I can thrive and enjoy this madness of my life.

Special thanks to:
My Kids, my 3 sons that inspire and teach me everyday.
My Partner, Miranda Gamel, for all you do for me and the boys. Thank you for your courage, and your kind leadership has won all of our hearts.
My family in Brazil, My Dad for his support and guidance, my mom, my brothers and sisters that continue to travel the world and excel in their lives, inspiring me to always go bigger.
My Mans group ” Men 2 Kings” on Facebook. solid brotherhood and some bad ass leaders. join us

Website: www.zonhq.com

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zon-carvalho-0119276a/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zonhq

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGPrJCw9hqfKLeHZDJbpHXA