REFLECTIONS | FRANK STYLES

Title

What Frank Styles Taught Me About Seeing the World Through Art

The Story

Frank Styles is best known for his mural work across Sunderland. Starting out tagging anything he could, stealing paint and avoiding the police, he quickly realised he needed to change direction.

Now, he shares how he sees the world, the passion behind his work, and his ongoing search for purpose through art. Always evolving, his story will resonate with creatives everywhere.

Opening

I’d admired Frank’s work around Sunderland for years. He didn’t seem too concerned or excited about being interviewed. If anything, he felt slightly on edge, but also completely himself. In those moments, all you can do is ask questions and try to connect. And eventually, that’s exactly what happened.

What Stayed With Me

Frank’s passion for art, an almost relentless need to create.

He spoke honestly about his work and what it represents. You could tell there was meaning behind it, that connection to the art is the reason he does it.

The Bigger Reflection

ADHD.

Frank was one of the first interviews where I really noticed it. Long-form conversation gives you space to understand someone properly, and it felt like Frank was taking everything in at once, observing the room, processing constantly.

It was familiar. And it made me realise this conversation was about more than just art.

A Line I Won’t Forget

“That was the end of his life, for painting his name on a train.”

A heavy reminder of consequences. A moment of graffiti leading to prison, and ultimately, a life lost.

Hearing that later in life, you realise how senseless it was. It just wasn’t worth it.

Closing Thought

Pursue what you’re drawn to. Be unapologetic about who you are.

Lean into your traits, not away from them, there’s usually a deeper reason behind the things you love.

Don’t ignore it. Follow it, and see where it takes you.