Episode 31 - Jonathan Lopes of California talks LEGO, Art & America

Jonathan Lopes lives in San Diego, CA where he is an artist who uses LEGO as his medium. In 2019, his first book, “New York City Brick by Brick,” was published, depicting the cityscape of his former hometown. Among other things, he is an artist-in-residence for Brick Universe, a LEGO fan convention which tours the United States. Jonathan and host Michael Whidden were connected by a mutual friend who thought that travel and Michael’s interest in learning more about the country dovetailed.

Our discussion includes, among other things:
*his career path from aspiring rock musician to LEGO brick artist
*how he has been able to make LEGO art sustain his livelihood
*LEGO as an artform
*learning about America from his extensive travels
*does he use kragl?
*his signature style of LEGO art

Jonathan finds hope from the vast knowledge that’s available as long as we seek it out and keep ourselves receptive to it.