I am a professional Routesetter and Artist based out of Houston, Texas. I work full time as the Head Routesetter of Momentum Silver Street and paint when I have the time.
Routesetters design artificial rock climbs for the general population to enjoy in the controlled environment of a climbing gym. Although routesetting is considered “artistic,” I wouldn’t have considered myself an artist until November 2019, when I bought an obnoxious amount of painting supplies. I started painting to explore a new medium and express myself without the constraint of “function” that is often associated with routesetting. To be honest, I was kind of messing around at first with little understanding or sense of direction. I knew I was enjoying the process though. Then, the pandemic emerged and the world stood still. So, like most people, I was out of work and struggling to make sense of my new life in quarantine.
My hobby was quickly becoming a necessity now that routesetting was stripped from my life. I started painting obsessively. Creativity was the only thing keeping me going most days and I found that my attitude towards the pandemic was much more positive than most. You see, I wouldn’t have had the time to focus solely on a new skill without this metaphorical pause. Painting became cathartic as I used this time to look within and deal with the emotions I had been carrying with me. In time, I found my footing in this new form of expression and started to explore.
My inspiration is a combination of elements from graffiti and pop art to specific artists such as Jackson Pollock and John Beckley.
I think everyone has something unique to offer the world and we should all strive to leave our mark on it. I’ve tried to find my own sense of style and I hope to continue to learn while creating something that is authentically me. Enjoy!
Contact me at https://www.syndicateroutesetting.com
