#226 | Sofles PT.1 - The ever evolving graffiti artist

Drawing every day is often one of the secrets we've found that separates hobbyist artists from professionals. In this episode of Bench Talk, Tom Gerrard sits down with Brisbane-based muralist Sofles to unpack the exact practice that unlocked his $40,000+ mural commissions, his 13-storey walls in Slovakia, and his ability to paint 14 different fitness gyms without repeating himself once. Sofles didn't start as a "natural talent." He started as a kid who drew constantly, trained his imagination like a muscle, and fell in love with graffiti in Year 9. But here's what set him apart: while other writers were obsessing over tags and crew politics, Sofles was building an unshakeable foundation in drawing. This is essential listening for any artist who's serious about building a sustainable career. The lesson is universal: show up to your sketchbook every single day. Key Topics Covered ⚡️Why drawing is the non-negotiable foundation for every art career ⚡️How Sofles trained his imagination from childhood and never stopped ⚡️The difference between a toy and a pro: it's not talent, it's consistent practice ⚡️Why versatility in style kept his career interesting and opened more opportunities ⚡️His journey from painting illegal trains to painting the biggest commissioned walls in the world ⚡️How he approaches massive projects: planning, efficiency, and mental discipline ⚡️The physical and mental endurance needed to paint 70-metre walls and 13-storey buildings ⚡️Why mentors matter, but so does finding your own voice ⚡️How graffiti has evolved from underground to celebrated, and why the rebellious spirit still matters ⚡️His take on the future of art in a high-tech world 🎧 Listen on Spotify & Apple Podcasts 📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube ------ 🔗 WANT TO GO DEEPER? 👉 Want to learn how Tom and our art students make a great income from their art? Get a copy of our free cheatsheet here; https://www.artcareeracademy.com/creative-cashflow-guide 👉 AI isn't going anywhere. But neither are you! Download 'AI Proof Your Art Career' ~ our free guide for artists who want to stay fully human https://www.artcareeracademy.com/ai-proof-art-career-guide ------ HOST: Tom Gerrard ✦ IG | @artcareeracademy and @tom-gerrard ✦ Watch on Youtube | @artcareeracademy ✦ Website | artcareeracademy.com and tom-gerrard.com GUEST: ✦ Instagram | @sofles ✦ Website: https://www.sofles.com If you loved this episode, then we'd be super grateful for a 5 star review and do subscribe so that you never miss an episode. Thanks for being here!