The first Delta tag appeared on the streets in 1984: through the years, this Netherlands based artist has developed a complex and unique style that resembles isometric plans and plays with ideas of architecture and high tech futuristic vehicles. An internationally acclaimed contemporary artist, he skillfully experiments with a variety of mediums in order to create his amazingly intricate paintings, prints, 3D sculptures, video works and installations. Project Midas pulls the man away from his studio for a quick chat.

1) What lies behind the alias DELTA?

I chose the name when I was 14 years old. Greek at school, I was looking for a letter from the alphabet... For me it is something from my graffiti past that sticks to me whether I like it or not. But I am proud of it.

2) List 5 words that evoke inspirational thoughts reflected in your work.

Camouflaged diversions, polished decay, mouldy future, uncontrolled order, lost shine.

3) DELTA is a sculptor, graffiti writer, illustrator and toy designer. Which of the four activities do you seek solace in the most?

Creating in general gives me comfort. But I am mostly an artist these days, with just a little design.

4) Are there any other forms of art that you wish to indulge in?

I wish I was able to make good music. In fact I would trade my visual skills for music skills next life.

5) Did you foresee the complexities of architecture as a missing element in designs, and did that help you to cultivate a distinct style?

Not really, I was looking for restrictions in field of work, so after time I put curves away, and later perspective. The result looks fairly architectural indeed. As it is so rigid. I might let curves and perspective come back some time.

6) What was the transitional point for your work when it crossed over into a gallery space, and what were the reactions of your followers?

The real transition was somewhere at the end of the '90 when the work separated itself from graffiti. Of course the graffiti influence was there, but it was good step to let it be on its own. Reaction of people when you do something new are mixed. Some people are surprised and open, some people prefer you to stay to what you did before.

7) What were the challenges you had to face while trying to establish yourself as an artist? Did growing up in Amsterdam make it easier?

Only recently I am fully depending for my living as an artist. Before it was something on the side. It has benefits though, as I am forced to be much more serious about it. The Netherlands are pretty open to artists.

8) A mind-blowing chaos of structure is the predominant feature in your works, what are your plans on further redefining its concept?

Thank you. That is indeed what i am looking to visualize. The image of people thinking they have control, while they do not at all. All things created have another side to it, that turns against the creator sooner or later.

9) Through your interactive installations, what level of engagement do you wish to expect from the audience?

That is something I wish I could do more often. The good thing with interactive work, is that you have another source of input, that makes your work less static. It can be influenced. I also like it when there is a certain degree of randomness to it. I would like to make synergy with music and vision.

10) Any hidden political agenda you wish to express in your works?

Ehhm. Tough one. I would like to be more powerful in that sense.

11) You are known for being rather elusive. Is that a conscious effort?

Am I? :)

12) Shed some light on your fascinating line of Lego-esque robotic toys. Are they a representation of nostalgic childhood sentiments?

Well indeed they are. Right now I am trying to make combinations between childhood robots and modern day skyscrapers. But in a naive way.

13) Seeing that you design record sleeves, what are your personal musical preferences?

Pretty much voiceless music. Whether it is dub, dubstep, techno.. to name a few artists: Scientist, Monolake, M. Von Oswald, Detroit/Berlin in general, etc.

14) Where do you see yourself in the next five years?

First of all raising kids. Then I do have some ideas that I want to spend time on. I try to continue in what I am doing. I can manage that I am happy already.

15) Where can fans go for updates on the wonderful works of DELTA?

Thank you. I am in the process of redoing my website somewhere in the near future. I should do some 'news' section there I guess.