I met Christopher Plentywounds through our good friend, Karlie Hustle. I just about stalked this kid because I was absolutely blown away when she showed me his work. The day of our meeting, in walks this man-child of only about 18 or so, with the most sincere eyes and driven demeanor. Showing me more of his pieces (which he carried in by himself- in 110 degree weather), I was floored. Using newspaper and various recycled goods, the artist is a MASTER of his craft. Each piece was more intricate and stunning than the next and I knew the FIENDS had stumbled on to something simply amazing. Listening to his story also confirmed that with compassion, courage, and love, you can overcome ANY obstacle. Stay tuned for the outcome of one of my most favorite joint projects yet!

Tell us a little about yourself

My name is Christopher Plentywounds and I am 18 years old. I was born in San Diego, California but after two years I moved back to Mexico with my mom and my brothers. When I turned 14, I decided to come back to the United States. It was hard leaving my family, but a goal was pushing me to be strong and make a drastic change. I’ve been living in Arizona for 4 years and throughout those years, I’ve been living with different families, that is, until I didn’t have any other place to go. I heard about Tumbleweed ( a homeless shelter) and I went there to ask for help and support and they opened their hearts to me.

How did you become involved with Tumbleweed?
Tumbleweed has different facilities all over the valley, so once I moved in, I visited different places like the learning center, drop in gallery, drop in center, and many others. Around a year ago, I volunteered to give some community hours. I was an assistant manager for a homeless outreach program.


In addition to your “artwear”, what other outlets of creativity do you utilize?
Since I can remember, I’ve utilized all sorts of different techniques and mediums. Now that I’m 18, I create most of my pieces out of newspaper and additional recycled materials. Another one of my hobbies is photography, since I think I have a good eye to take the right shot.


What inspires you as an artist?
Everyone has inspirations to keep working hard and explore areas that they never could’ve imagined. I believe that my main inspiration AND motivation is to keep working hard and to keep a positive environment around me. Other inspirations are my mom and my God, they have never left me alone.


What kind of music do you listen to when your creative juices are flowing?
When I’m creating my art, I love to listen to meditative music. It is just an extraordinarily relaxing sound that keeps myself working, inspired, and helps me to create new, innovative ideas.


What does it mean to YOU to be a “Fresh Fiend”?
Being a “Fresh Fiend” to me, means being able to express yourself without any restrictions. In just the short time I worked with you guys, it felt like a little family that works together as a team, not only to entertain readers and fans of the blog, but also supports the community and creativity of others.


What advice can you offer other young, aspiring artists?
If you really want to be a good artist and be recognized, you have to work hard and not listen to negative comments. Those comments will only bring your self esteem down. Never give up on any of your dreams.


Are there any upcoming projects you can tell us about?
Thanks to The Fresh Fiends, I have been connecting with so many great people that want to help me out and put my name out there. Once more, thank you Fresh Fiends, for the chance that you guys gave me to be part of your incredible team!


Where do you see yourself 5 years from now?
First, I hope God can give me the opportunity to live 5 more years and if I can, I would use those years wisely to accomplish as much as I can. I see myself in Milan, Italy graduating from a university and showing my art pieces and my costumes in fashion shows.


About Tumbleweed’s Young Adults Program (Y.A.P.):

Tumbleweed’s Young Adults Program (Y.A.P.) provides a safe place to live for homeless or runaway youth who have no other financial support or place to live. These young people have no viable family to support them and rarely are wards of the court. Youth receive independent living training, counseling, job development and skill building. Skill building is designed to help the youth learn to live independently and includes employment and parenting skills as well as a focus on increasing education level. Tumbleweed is always in need of clothing, toiletry items, linens, and food. Do YOUR part in providing aid to this incredible outreach program. For more information, contact KarlieHustle@gmail.com.

1. DO NOT inquire about the relationship between mom and ex. Bottom line, you DON’T want to go there. If your significant other imposes too much info on you, stop them in their tracks (as I should have). This will save you from feeling inadequate, insecure, or in-ANYTHING really.