Meet Mister Cartoon | CarStories Podcast
Mister Cartoon Photograph from https://www.mistercartoon.com/
Mister Cartoon, the iconic tattoo artist and street culture luminary, recently sat down for an exclusive interview on the Petersen’ CarStories podcast, offering a glimpse into his fascinating journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of the most revered figures in both the tattoo and lowriding worlds. Growing up in a creative household in Los Angeles, Mister Cartoon was surrounded by art and inspiration from an early age. His parents encouraged his artistic pursuits, laying the foundation for his future endeavors. From doodling on school notebooks to experimenting with spray paint in alleyways, Mister Cartoon's passion for art was evident from the start.
One of the pivotal moments in Mister Cartoon's artistic evolution came during his youth, when he began airbrushing shirts at local swap meets. It was here that he honed his skills and developed his signature style, drawing inspiration from the vibrant street culture of LA and the rich tapestry of Chicano art. As his reputation grew, Mister Cartoon transitioned from airbrushing shirts to tattooing, quickly establishing himself as one of the preeminent tattoo artists of his generation. His unique blend of street aesthetics, fine artistry, and cultural symbolism set him apart, attracting clients from all walks of life, including celebrities, musicians, and fellow artists.
On the podcast, Mister Cartoon reflects on the parallels between tattooing and lowriding, two subcultures deeply rooted in self-expression and community. He shares anecdotes from his early days cruising the streets of LA in his customized lowrider, recounting the camaraderie and sense of belonging that comes with being part of the lowrider scene. Notably, Mister Cartoon's own lowrider will be featured in the upcoming "Best in Low" exhibit at the Petersen Automotive Museum, set to open on May 11th. This exhibit celebrates the artistry and craftsmanship of lowrider culture, showcasing some of the most iconic vehicles in the movement's history. Mister Cartoon leaves listeners with words of wisdom, emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself and embracing one's roots. His journey from swap meets to museum exhibits serves as a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and perseverance, inspiring generations to come.
