Tim Clorius installation takes shape at Thompson’s Point

Photographer: Christopher Cary

A native of Germany and a Maine College of Art alumnus, familiar to urban artaficionados  by the handle “subone”, and known more broadly for his work as an “aerosol artist,” Clorius is a renowned painter who bridges the worlds of street art and so-called “fine art,” bustingup the distinctions between art world and real world, and showing that whattruly counts is the power of the work, the mastery of the material, and thecommitment to moving people. Which he does, consistently, in his mural projectshere in Maine and around the world. 

Clorius’ paintings elevate the visual and verbal styles of popular street cultures whileremaining fully rooted in them. And they speak with a conscience, whether theywork in the realm of the playful and wondrous, or take shape as the more directsocially engaged messages that tackle the challenges of building a moreequitable society. 

 “I met Tim in 2000 when he was a student at MECA, back when I was a wayward college professor,” says owner and developer Chris Thompson. “Even then, he stood out among a group of incredibly motivated artists for his skill, commitment, intellectual engagement, and unstoppable work ethic. He came to the school as an established graffiti writer with an undeniable street credibility on both sides of the Atlantic, and then set about also becoming both a masterful technically trained studio painter and a sophisticated and historically informed scholar, too. The way he’s developed his career as an artist, and really as a public intellectual speaking with a spray can, has been inspiring.  We are very excited to have the opportunity to work with him to bring his talents, his curiosity, and his commitment to the community, to the Thompson’s Point neighborhood.” 

Beginning with a panel behind the Brick South event venue, Clorius will begin work onFriday, August 7th and will be on hand during the Happy Hour on theHalf Shell event with Maine Oyster Company and Iris Eats, building out an epicmural and eager to chat with viewers interested to know about his work, theprocess of imagining it, and the steps involved in executing it.