Tai Taeoalii

My work imagines an alternate universe in a post-apocalyptic state. The world I create is inhabited by animals both familiar and strange, and other symbols of decay appear alongside surreal and sometimes playful elements. These images often reflect on themes of war, environmental decline, and the anxieties of modern life, while also leaving room for humor, curiosity, and open interpretation. I have worked with a ballpoint pen since grade school and it remains my primary tool. The precision and permanence of the pen allow me to develop intricate detail and layered textures that define my style. My process is guided by exploration and instinct, letting the work grow naturally without rigid planning. Music is a constant source of rhythm and inspiration. My personal history shapes my art. I am a U.S.-born Samoan and Dutch artist who grew up in 1980s suburban Utah. As a bi-racial kid navigating cultural identity, I found a refuge in drawing. Over the years I explored graffiti, tattooing, music, and filmmaking, but drawing has always been where I feel most connected. I want my work to reward close attention. At first glance it may seem whimsical or surreal, but a longer look often reveals layers of meaning. Whether exhibited in galleries, shared at art fairs, or displayed in my Ol’ Blue Gallery in Hannibal, Missouri, each piece reflects a mix of careful craftsmanship and imaginative storytelling. My hope is that viewers walk away with their own version of the world I create.