old tree, tired from the weight of its dreams Artwork

Arbo - aka Kris Schumacher, is a member of the DaVandalz Crew art collective and a multidisciplinary artist with roots in both New York and Rhode Island. His artistic journey weaves through the dynamic ecosystems of a sustainable tree farm in southern New England and the ever-changing streetscapes of New York City. Growing up in the 80s and 90s, Arbo's world was one where the raw, untamed forces of nature met the burgeoning digital age, a fusion that now defines his artistic approach. In the forests of his youth, Arbo didn't just find tranquility but a profound understanding and appreciation of controlled chaos. This environment, teeming with competing life forms and ever-evolving landscapes, mirrored the layered, ever-changing nature of graffiti art that later captivated him in the urban jungle. Embracing and understanding this chaos has provided a sanctuary for his mind, helping him harness the creativity and focus often challenged by ADHD. His art reflects this balance, often exploring themes that are simultaneously vibrant and ominous, peaceful and foreboding. Arbo's work is an exploration of the parallels between the natural world's organic growth and the layered history of street art. His pieces are narratives that invite viewers to delve into worlds balancing on the fine line between reality and fantasy. The serene chaos of the forest and the structured anarchy of urban life are not just muses but integral parts of his identity. In his dual life as an entrepreneur and artist, Arbo's vision extends to creating spaces where art, nature, and community intersect. This is epitomized by his plans for an outdoor living art museum and artist retreat center. His art is a testament to his journey, inviting viewers into a world where beauty and complexity coexist, where the serenity of nature dances with the vibrant pulse of urban life.