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Today, we would like to introduce you to London-based artist and musician Toby Grant, aka Cato. Cato was born in Brighton, England. Cato pairs acrylic, collage, and airbrush in his paintings, and through his practice, he aims to explore the foundations of art, belonging, and Black culture. Cato paints scenes constructed from old photos he sources from his father’s books or the internet. He paints the faces and then builds a scenario around them with collaged puzzle pieces.
Cato is currently showing work at The Cabin of Danny First, in Los Angeles.
Cato! Thank you for taking the time to speak to me. Could you describe yourself to those who do not know you?
Sure, I am someone who loves to learn and to try many things. I am a brother to two sisters.
What is a regular day like?
I get a coffee and then go to the studio, make or continue a painting, get a halloumi wrap, make some music with my friends if they’re around, go home, and watch some YouTube with the same guys.
Can you describe your artistic journey?
When I was young, my mum would draw me dinosaurs to color in. Then, I started drawing my dinosaurs. Years later, I’m still drawing, but now I draw people from the street. When I met my closest friends, it was through making music with them. Alongside the music, I started teaching myself to animate – inspired by Jago’s dad, Tim Sagar. I dropped out of art school and started working with my sisters – making animations and music videos with Maya and Jazz. When I met my ex-girlfriend Athen, we began sharing studios and making together – she was painting at the time. I started mimicking my favorite artists and painting as much as possible – especially while we were in Mexico. Now I’m painting full time and planning some music and animations.
What does your creative process look like?
I paint scenes constructed from old photos I find in my dad’s books or on the internet. I paint the faces and then build a scenario around them with collaged puzzle pieces – each painted.
Can we dig deeper into your painting style, inspiration, and message? What themes do you pursue?
I like to create an interaction between the characters I choose and the world around them. I’m most excited when subtle emotions start manifesting in your imagination while looking at and empathizing with them. The themes could be anything experienced by people – like in a film or album.
What keeps you motivated and interested in your work?
There is a constant challenge to make more interesting and dynamic things.
Which of all places where your art was exhibited is the most memorable, and why?
Probably in the Cabin as I am on the other side of the world, on my own with a room full of my biggest ever paintings.
How do you see your work affecting societal issues and contributing to a dialogue?
One day, they might get closer to issues I am concerned about – but the aim is just to be honest with whatever impulse comes to mind while making.
What advice would you give to artists just starting?
Get cracking, find everything.
What is the best advice you were given regarding your art career as an artist?
Try and try again.
What jobs have you done other than being an artist?
I’ve worked in pubs and as a cook at a ramen bar.
What does success mean to you?
Freedom and space to make things, a good relationship with the world.
How would you like to be seen as an artist years from now?
As someone willing to explore anything.
What does being original or unique in the arts mean?
I don’t know; I think the best artists are, at most, a unique blend of influences.
Name three contemporary artists you’d like to be compared to.
I don’t know about comparison – I wouldn’t mind being talked about alongside Kerry James Marshall, Thebe Kgotsitsile and Sylvain Chomet.
What do you dream about?
I dream about jungles and boats and music.
What simple pleasures bring you alive?
A new album, a good basketball game, jamming with my friends.
Name a book or film that grabbed your attention recently and why.
Ikiru was beautifully built; I saw it at the new Beverly. Carson McCullers interrogated my lonely heart.
What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear:
Poor: luck
Luxury: tax
Religion: art
Politics: noise
What’s next for Cato?
Who knows – going home.
Finally, is there anything else you would like to share?
Cato – a wind that was blown is on Spotify. Free your mind, and your ass will follow.
