Photo By Aaron Kent

Aaron Kent

Artist AARON KENT, like the work he creates, is a complex creature. Both take time, patience and a willingness to explore. Known as Aaron Kent and by his nickname AK-47, Kent pushes his audience in accustomed ways. To get a closer look at his work explore www.aaronkent.org. Check out five things that motivate and fuel the method behind his "madness."

Free thought. My key desire is to make art for myself. With this in mind, I feel like I can be free and really honest. I wish I could do it 24/7. However, constantly doing your own thing typically doesn't pay the bills.

World issues. More specifically, world issues that provoke real reactions.

Underground art. I get excited when I run across cutting-edge artwork. I like to think of myself as an upfront and in-your-face, contemporary artist. My most recent series is called Bloodstains. The work isn't necessarily meant to be attractive. This series is not as aggressive the rest of my artwork.

Contemporary and modern museums and galleries. I love checking out new and provocative work.

Friends and family. A lot of my artwork does not generate a "pretty picture." It smacks the viewer in the face. It provokes questions, which then can lead to additional questions -- both good and bad. Through the motivation and support of my friends and family as well as my girlfriend, Janel, I have been able to peruse this type of art. For me, art is my way of life.