Take Down the Picasso and Put Up the ARLO
by Nathan Adam
Brian “Arlo” Essek is a four time veteran of the Sundae Market and a fan favorite around the City of Pittsburgh. He found his first painting audience amongst fans of another kind 2 and half years ago when he started selling Steelers paintings amongst the crowd on game day. He soon realized his potential in painting as his craft before focused on chalk pastel pieces. After he saw that people were enjoying his art he moved his work into a more personal direction. Arlo started painting whatever came to his mind, if he thought something was funny or slightly offensive he put it on the canvas. This kind of painting gave Arlo inspiration as he loves watching people’s reactions to his work. The idea process soon grew into his own style which he likes to call Pop Surrealism.
Other than listening to what people have to say about his paintings there are a few other things that drive Arlo’s art. He loves seeing his work displayed in his friend’s and family’s homes. He also finds a lot of inspiration in music, as one lyric can set off a new piece of work. Hearing fans of his work ask to see his latest project also drives him to keep painting. Besides his art, Arlo’s passions are very focused on his family and girlfriend. Family is his top priority and comes before anything to him. As Arlo grows as an artist he wishes painting could be his full time occupation but realizes that is not possible right now. As for his future he would love for his work to be displayed in art galleries such as the Jonathan LeVine or the White Walls gallery and even more in the future appearing in the MOMA as Arlo has been quoted saying “take down the Picasso and put up the ARLO”. As the Picasso may never be taken down, maybe one day they will make room next to it for a painting from Brian “Arlo” Essek.
Arlo has been displaying his work since the first Sundae Market and has been a big help to its success. The true veteran of this event shows a great admiration for it and has found many connections in and out of the art community through the Sundae Market. He will continue to be involved in it as he enjoys its chill environment and great opportunity for people to show of their passions to the public.
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