You’re probably familiar with Van Than Rudd’s surname, but you’re missing out if you’re not familiar with his work. Whether it’s on canvas, paper, a tree, or the side of a building, Van sends a refreshingly clear and bold message with his art—if you find confrontation refreshing, that is. Keep reading to learn a little bit about a very interesting fellow.

1. How are you today?

Bit tired – but ok…..too much staring at computer screen.

2. Is Melbourne an ideal canvas?

Always is….currently have some graffiti up in various places as part of SweetStreets urban art festival 2010. Love the fact that many Melbournians love to see art on street – great way to keep political art strong and fresh!

3. How would you compare your somewhat unorthodox political interaction with a politician’s (such as your Uncle Kevin) political involvement?

Funny thing is, I don’t view my political interaction as ‘unorthodox’. In context with the global movements of working people against the oppressive forces of  the profit-focussed, global system, my politics is by far more in line with the thinking of millions of working people. Take Spain and France for example, the millions that are currently taking action on the streets against govt cost cutting to welfare, clearly out number the few hundred ‘politicians’ and business leaders running the world as it is.

So I would argue that politicians such as my Uncle Kevin, represent a minority of wealthy people – against the interests of many, many workers around the globe. I am therefore not really ‘unorthodox’ – just purposely misrepresented by Australia’s narrow corporate media.

4. What’s…

…  your favourite Melbourne haunt?

Too many.

… your favourite colour?

Still is veridian green.

... the best way to clear your head?

Play with kids and talk with partner, Tania, read a book, paint a picture or play soccer.

… your life goal?

To contribute as much as I possibly can, given the tough economic conditions, to the changing of the capitalist system from one of greed, war, racism, sexism, homophobia, economic inequality, to a system of socialised wealth, where the working people have a direct say in whether the earth continues to head for destruction under the mismanagement of a wealthy few, or is managed carefully by the majority of working people for generations to come.