SELF PORTRAIT: AN INTERVIEW WITH ARTIST

Errick “Pach Atomz” Freeman

July 31, 2024

Tell us a little about yourself.

I am a visual artist based in Canton with over 20 years of experience in the public eye. Overall, I have over 40 years of experience in the arts in general. I specialize in what I call “Pirochromatic art” or painting with fire. I seek out artists in residency programs to further my professional development. I have a degree in Graphic Design from The University of Pittsburgh and a degree in Fine Arts in Journalism from Kent State University.

How did you first become interested in the arts?

When I was ten years old, I was selected for an art program presented by OSU and Governor Celeste back in the mid 80s. There was about 25 of us young creatives from different cities and communities throughout Northeast Ohio that were selected for the program. We explored various aspects of creativity through theater, music, dance and visual arts. I’ve been creating since I can remember, but the program solidified my passion for it.

How are you involved in the Stark County arts community?

Whew! Hahaha! I’ve been involved in the arts in Stark County since before the resurrection of Arts in Stark. My mother and I started merchandising cultural arts and sculptures from around the world starting back in the mid and late 80s. We’ve had galleries in the old Mansfield business plaza, the old “Mellet Mall”, Parkland Plaza, and various other locations throughout the city of Canton.

I also get invited to speaking engagements and art discussion panels. I teach art through various non-profits and have a few murals throughout the city. I host drum circles and have written and produced a few albums and single music recordings with a local partner. I’m one of the original founders of the Massillon Community Arts Council, and an inaugurator of Cantons art district.

I’m an ambassador of the Canton Symphony Orchestra and their first official artist-in-residence. Oh yeah, most importantly… I’m a proud father of 6 children, and the youngest son of one of the greatest community activists in Stark County’s history.

What inspires your creative process?

I have dreams, and authentic imagination. Each work inspires the next piece in some way. Currently, I’ve been drawing inspiration from cultural fabrics, patterns and designs. My mother is the greatest influence of all I’ve done in the arts.

Can you share a memorable experience related to your artwork?

I was invited to show at “ArtExpo2019,” which is billed as the world’s largest and most prestigious art show in the world. That was a very emotional moment for me because of my backstory. I was there with artists selling their artwork starting around $50,000, and going up from there.

There are a lot of memorable moments, but that’s just one of them.

What mediums do you prefer to work with, and why?

I have history with various materials, but I mostly work with wood. It might be an inherent thing because my grandfather was a carpenter. Wood is very versatile and different from any other material. The way the grains run through each piece of wood is like a story of its own.

Are there any local artists or art movements that have influenced you?

Cherry Arts, Pat Buckohr (both Pat the Elder and his son Pat the Younger), Margene May, Ash Palmer, Erin Mulligan, Steve Ehret, and a few others.

Tell us about any upcoming exhibitions or events you’re involved in.

I recently finished a hospitality mural on the side of a new community grocery store on 6th and Shorb NW in Canton. It displays the word “welcome” in seven different languages on seven different fruits and vegetables. I’m working on a floating abstract mural on a gated fence in Mansfield, OH, and I’m working on a sculptural mural that will be in Wooster, OH. I usually perform at George’s Lounge playing conga, and every second Friday I host the drum circle in Louisville’s Umbrella Alley.