The DBH artist Valentino I Putu, or Vhayu19, hails from the Indonesian island of Bali and is also fortunate to travel the world on a cruise liner for work. Vhayu19 believes that it does not matter where he is in the world because his passion for art follows him “wherever I go.” However, he shares that he would love to live in Japan because the art and the culture are a perfect muse for his designs. He jokes that living in Japan would make him happy and that being in a “better mood” can lead to fresh new ideas as well.

Vhayu19 recognizes that the most important part of creating is to “be honest with yourself” and to always be receptive to new ideas. He also encourages people to “open up your mind and imagine” and never be afraid to be different. He reassures other artists to never forget “to be free and honest with yourself” and to create from their own experiences.

Valentino looks to illustrators like Aaron Horkey, Dan Mumford, Audrey Kawazaki, as well as, local Indonesian artists because their work makes him feel like inspiration is “flowing through my veins.” However, he is also interested in the myths, the architecture, and the sculptures of Ancient Greece. Vhayu19 enjoys incorporating these elements into his work; his intricate designs are like a window into the old myths filled with winged monsters, mysterious creatures, and unusual visions.

Vhayu19 admits that his art can change drastically from its conception to the final product because he always has new ideas throughout the creative process. However, in contrast, if he is having trouble channeling one of these new ideas then he takes time away to “refresh my mind” by playing guitar, listening to music, or writing. After some time away from creating, he returns with the renewed philosophy to “take a pen and start to draw. Whatever it is just keep drawing.”