CONVERSATIONS IN LIGHT WITH PHAROAHE MONCH

The Museum of Light: Artists as Alchemists: Just as an alchemist transforms lead into gold, do you feel that being an artist relates to that of being an alchemist? Do you view the artist journey and your creative expression, as alchemy?

PHAROAHE MONCH: Gold as compared to art in my opinion must inspire new and positive energy. It must inspire the observer of the art and bring them wealth. Perhaps not wealth in the form of actual gold but things such as hope, encouragement, insight and more important knowledge. When the creator of the art gets the message that his paintings or books or songs have brought this connection to fruition, that’s true alchemy.

The Museum of Light: The Evidence of the Journey: Artists are often labeled as “stars.” Just as a star radiates light and the planets then reflect this light, do you see your work as an artist like that of a star? Is this “light” that stars radiate merely the evidence of this journey of becoming a star/learning to radiate light?

PHAROAHE MONCH: Definitely! The reverberation and resignation of music travels scientifically. Notes are vibrating waves. It is very similar to light travel. It’s why I chose this as my profession.

The Museum of Light: The Courage to Create: When an artist is not “creating” it is often labeled a “creative block.” How do you navigate this space, how do you find the creative spark in the dark, and does it require courage to create from this unknown space? Describe this process.

PHAROAHE MONCH: I love this darkness, this void is just as beautiful in the process of creation it allows me to listen and seek more information to apply when needed. I love to listen, sometimes the silence is where all there is to know can be heard.