We had the good fortune of connecting with Ren Weeden and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ren, do you disagree with some advice that is more or less universally accepted?
I’ve never resinated with the duality of man. Cross-Roads, left-brained right-brained, the path less travelled, none of it made sense to me. In another life I was a Bio-Medical Engineer. Today I am blessed to work as an artist. I used to struggle with choosing between logic and passion until a dear mentor told me “who said you had to pick. If someone can’t do both that’s their problem.” Don’t let other project the limits of their imagination onto you. There is no duality, but rather one whole. And it takes a true pioneer to realize that life isn’t a series of choices, but rather a sequence of events. Once you stop taking things so seriously, you become the master of your fate.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I like to describe my art as a Frankenstein Monster. I pick different aspects from cool things and mash them together while lightning strikes, making a creature I can’t even control. My style is that simple. It lies on the intersection of Beauty, Comedy, and Horror. It was a long journey to develop this, filled with many angry mobs, but one that I wouldn’t sacrifice for the world. With that in mind, it taught me a tough lesson. Only you can be the baddest version of yourself. Instead of thinking “what if” change your framework to “why not”. Embrace failure like a long lost love. Dance in your shortcomings. Then you will find peace.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We start with a mandatory trip to Griffith. Its the mecca of the city of lost angels. After that, some house parties to get into the vibe. A beautiful session at the beach to cure a hangover and then we ride toward where the music takes us. The idea of being in SoCal to so many of my friends is a dream, and a dream vacation is what they shall get.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to Shoutout all the Warriors in my corner, I love you more than SpongeBob loves Kraby Patties.

Instagram: @theerenaissance

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSocal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.