Meet Bobby Stills | “Artist”

We had the good fortune of connecting with Bobby Stills and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Bobby, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
Asking where I’m from is a loaded question. Haha I need a whole personal interview for that because I’ve lived In 5 different states. Growing up and moving around has taught me to be relentless and to hustle. Nothing is going to come to you you have to work for it. If you don’t work you don’t eat,if you don’t grind you don’t shine. When I say work for it it’s networking, building relationships, getting out of your comfort zone, promoting yourself,investing in yourself and craft etc.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My “Art” quotes are intentional are reflections of me. I build 12” Native American action figures. I build what every Native kid wanted back in the day, a toy that looked like them a toy they could relate to. My figures are kitbash and are all unique from their tattoos to their sneakers and represent both my cultures.The challanges I had to overcome were my own fear of putting myself out there .Being Apache and Chicano you’re not Indian enough or not Mexican enough so I struggle with that sometimes. but f*ck it I’m creating my own lane. One thing I am very proud of is being accepted and apart of Indian Country art world and to be recognized and acknowledged by these popular and respected artists is awesome. Big shout out and Thank you to Greg at Fahrenheit Gallery for giving me the opportunity to show during Santa Fe Indian Market a personal highlight and achievement in my life.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Being very new to Phoenix I would be a terrible tour guide. We are still exploring and learning everything Phoenix has to offer. So far my favorite place to be is floating in the river.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’m blessed to be surrounded by artists and motivated homies. Shout out to my biggest supporter/motivator is my beautiful wife Tasheena Littleben an amazing artist as well. My mentor Lyndon Tsosie award winning Silversmith and Ernesto Burbank with his storytelling artwork.

Instagram: @chldrn_of_the_sun @Bobby_Stills