Cali DeWitt | Los Angeles Creator’s Creative Scene | THISTIME magazine | CASIO

Cali DeWitt’s studio is located in West Adams, a vibrant area where new cafes and restaurants are opening, attracting artists and creators. We visited his studio-a space filled with tools, his own artwork, records, and cassette tapes-offering a glimpse into his creative mind as we spoke with him about his work.

――What are the themes or concepts behind your work?

It’s always the same themes-the criminalization of free thinking, the criminalization of living outside of acceptable society.

――What inspired you to pursue art?

It was a natural progression. Growing up, and being part of an open-minded family, it was never really a decision-it was just something I did.

――Why did you choose art as your medium of expression? Is there something specific you want to communicate or achieve through it?

I see art as communication. I want to find like-minded people, but more than anything, I do it for fun-to make myself and my friends happy. If I were a natural singer, I might have taken that path instead, but this feels natural and enjoyable to me.

――When did you first start combining graphics and text in your work?

I think I always did. I grew up collecting punk flyers, which were art to me at the time. They had pictures and words on them. It wasn’t a conscious decision, it was just something I loved.

―― Many of your pieces feature graphics and text that seem unrelated at first glance. For example, pairing a photo of a flower with the words “bad news” or a dog with “luxury items.” How do you come up with these combinations?

It’s just a humorous juxtaposition. We’re bombarded with advertisements all day long. For me, these works resemble ads -but they’re selling something different, maybe.

―― How do you typically source the visuals for your art? And when pairing them with text, what guides your process in selecting the right words?

The images come when they come, as does the text. I am always saving/scanning images and taking notes on text/writing it down as it comes to me. I don’t need to know at the time what it might be used for, only that I like it.

―― Last year, you exhibited new works at Komiyama Shoten and Big Love Records in Tokyo, both of which explored fetishistic themes. What led you to work with these subjects?

I am always interested in subjects that exist in the shadows and privacy. I believe in privacy and mystery. The initial inspiration came from the censorship laws in Japan, and my own beliefs in total freedom.

――What is your mindset when creating art?

Ideally, it just feels like hanging out with friends and family. You should feel relaxed and happy. This stuff shouldn’t be stressful.

―― Do you often find inspiration in daily life?

Absolutely. Every day, I ride my bike as far as I can, taking in the city and finding inspiration. No matter what city I’m in, inspiration is everywhere. But most of all, it’s at home.

The space where DeWitt creates his artwork is filled with tools, his own works, and a heat press machine and silk screens used for making apparel.

The space where DeWitt creates his artwork is filled with tools, his own works, and a heat press machine and silk screens used for making apparel.

――What is your favorite time of day?

Probably around 6 AM, before anyone wakes up. I sit, drink coffee, and plan my day. I love the sunrise. That’s why I go to bed early, around 9 PM.

―― Do you have a favorite place in your studio?

I like sitting by the records. There are always new ones, so that’s probably where I sit the most, listening to new music.

―― Could you share a few records you’ve enjoyed recently? Are there any older tracks you’ve loved for years or songs you often listen to while creating art?

The new Enceladus demo is great.Anything by Loosey. I’m looking forward to the Loosey album. The new Arbor LP.I try not to spend too much time listening to old faves, as I think nostalgia is too easy.

―― Are there any tools or materials you like to use when creating your work?

I’ve always used a razor blade, images, and tape. They’re always within reach, and I used them in this piece as well.

―― You’ve visited Tokyo many times. What was your first connection to the city? What makes you want to keep returning?

I always wanted to visit Japan. In 2013, I was invited by Big Love Records in Harajuku for an exhibition and event. Of all the cities and countries I’ve been to, Japan was the first-and still the only -place where I thought, I could live here. I don’t feel that way about anywhere else except LA. From that first trip, my goal was to keep coming back, and now I visit almost every month. Even though I’ve been there so many times, I’m always excited to return. I’ve built friendships, and there’s always something new to discover. Outside of the usual tourist spots, there’s so much magic. It continues to be a place of discovery for me.

―― Tell us about the artwork you created for G-SHOCK.

G-SHOCK is a heritage brand. A classic, long-time, ubiquitous brand that stays true to itself. If there’s a connection, maybe it’s that we’ve both been around for a while, doing whatever we want. G-SHOCK remains G-SHOCK, which is respectable. I made a collage about the strength of G-SHOCK. It’s recognized worldwide as something durable, so I chose words around that theme. The flyer-style collage includes phrases like Indestructible, Blast Proof, and Time Waits for No Man, emphasizing that nothing is more precious than time.

DeWitt’s favorite spot in his studio is a corner packed with records, posters, ephemera, and figurines—items from his favorite cultural influences. The sofa he sits on is an early piece by designer Darren Romanelli, known for reworked furniture.

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Cali DeWitt

Cali DeWitt, a Canadian artist based in Los Angeles, is known for his work rooted in underground culture, blending visuals and text to create compelling expressions. In 2024, he held a solo exhibition at a gallery operated by Komiyama Shoten in Tokyo, solidifying his strong following not only in Los Angeles but also in Japan.

Instagram. @caramelbobby