Behind the Scenes: Mystic X Joshua Van Iersel Collab

Known for his explosive and bold style, Joshua’s piece ‘Face of Elements’ took center stage in the capsule, which features his artwork on our oversized crew sweat and relaxed fit tee. Drawing inspiration from the ancient philosophy of the five classical elements, each symbol is intricately woven into the piece. Today we had the pleasure of chatting with Joshua to talk us through his background, art, and style.

To celebrate the launch of this collection we are giving away this original piece of artwork along with one item from the Joshua Capsule, to entry follow the steps below. Make sure to be following both @mysticboarding & j___o_s_h__u_a____art

Hey Joshua, thanks for taking the time! Can you tell us about your journey as an artist? How, when, and where did you get started?

I’m from Eindhoven and have lived here my whole life, starting with art as a super young kid. My father, grandpa, and grandma were artists, so art was all around me growing up. The moment I could hold a pencil I started drawing too.

What are your preferred materials and tools when creating your artwork? Have these choices evolved over time?

Before I began painting, I was mostly drawing. The main materials I use now are acrylic paint, spray paint, oil sticks, ink, pencils, and markers. Most of the time I work on all kinds of paper, canvases, and linen. I like to use a variety of objects around me to experiment on any surface. For instance, using things I’ve found on the streets to scratch with, or kitchen tools, and toys. This lets me have fun and I get a different outcome each time!

How would you describe your artistic style or genre? Are there particular themes or subjects you are drawn to in your work?

I always like to say I make Full-Color Soul Explosions with Raw Power! But I think it’s a combination between abstract, figurative, graphic, street art, and pop art.

What or who has been your biggest influence in your art?

My dad Rik Van Iersel is by far my number one hero in making art. Besides him, there are so many artists that I like: Basquiat, Walt Disney, and Picasso for example.

Could you describe your creative process?

My process always starts by just jumping in there like a little kid! With full-on energy and playtime. With great joy and freedom. The process of creating is what I love the most. It’s how I understand things better in life and it’s the best way to expand my mind and soul.

What messages or feelings do you hope to convey through your art?

It’s not that I have direct messages or feelings that I want to project. But because I have a very high production there’s definitely a thing that connects all of my work. I hope to bring positive energy, joy, and wonder and make other people say “Wow, I wanna create some myself!”

How did the collaboration with Mystic begin?

I’ve known Merlinda from the Mystic team for a while now. She asked me if I wanted to collaborate. She knows my work and thought the outcome could be very cool. That was a beautiful thing for her to connect me and my work with the lovely brand.

The artwork chosen was ‘Face of Elements.’ Can you tell us about this piece? What inspired it?

‘Face of Elements’ was given to the painting along the process with Mystic. Now it’s the perfect name for the whole picture. I remember making the painting after being moved by reading about elements of Egypt, deep space, and nature. The Mystic project is about the elements and it needed a good face! :)

What was your initial reaction towards collaborating with Mystic, and a capsule that features your work?

“Yeah! Alright! Let’s gooo!!!” That was my first reaction haha! I love it when my work is appreciated and connects me to others. Mystic feels like a warm positive no-nonsense brand, so yeah, why not!

How did the result compare to your expectations?

The result is dope! It’s completely taken out of my hands and that’s a good thing once in a while. I got to sit back and enjoy the show.

How do you see the role of art in fashion?

 I think art and fashion are two completely different ways of expression. But they can also go together well. I always had a love for punk and t-shirts just like music covers or posters. A t-shirt is still the perfect canvas for art and fashion to go together. I’m now working with my girlfriend on a super cool brand that combines my art with her beautiful outfits. That’s going to be crazy awesome! 

How can fans follow your work and stay updated on your new projects?

I’m on Instagram under the name j___o_s_h__u_a____art , where you can follow my process as an artist and connect with me! And my website is www.joshuavaniersel.nl 

Click here to sign up and get a chance to win the exclusive Joshua Van Iersel Package, featuring the original artwork 'Face of Elements' and 'The Joshua Crew' Sweater.