Frequently Asked Questions

Do you really blow up your work?

Yep.  I use high speed fuses in various shapes sizes and speeds.  I also will use several layers of various grades of gunpowder.  Paints, boards, paper all enhance the look.

Is your work dangerous?

Only if you think fire and explosions are dangerous.  I’ve done it many times.  The uncertainty creates the energy that makes for exciting art. At any moment you can be surprised by the beauty of it!

Is this a gimmick?

Well, if it is, then so is acrylic, pencil, charcoal, oil and gouache.  They all leave their impression!  My art is the brightest when it burns into the canvas, leaving a permanent dark mark.

Are you related to Butch Vig? 

Yep, he’s my brother.  We are big fans of each other.  I own his music.  He owns my art.  It works out!  By the way, he is a really nice guy.

Why do you do this?

I hope the more gunpowder I use the less there is for killing people.  My mission is to make the world a safer place.

Who is your inspiration?

Cai Guo-Qiang.  Man, he is awesome!  I learned many of my techniques from watching him.  I then developed my own artistic way of doing it.  My work is smaller, brighter and has more "pop". It continues to evolve.

What happened on your first gunpowder piece?

The first one.  The “Original Stick”.  I had a small board, put some gunpowder on it.  Then thinking it wasn’t enough, put more on.  Then more.  I then layered some cardboard and rocks and ran a high speed fuse to it.  I lit the fuse and it burned much faster than expected and the whole thing exploded.  Rocks and cardboard blew all over the place. It sucked all the air out of the area and the smoke looked like a small mushroom cloud.  I was hooked!  I still have the piece.  It looks great.

Do you need an intern?

Not right now.

Can I light the fuse?

Let me check with my insurance company!