If you’re active on social media, you’ve likely encountered Fritz Von Eric, a talented artist and content creator from Texas, now based in New York City. Von Eric’s art explores identity, focusing on Black experiences through lively, eye-catching figures that delve into themes of family, queer identities, and human connection.

Von Eric’s work is characterized by its playful energy, providing an engaging counterpoint to weighty subjects. His unique perspective allows him to create art that tackles serious life topics while maintaining accessibility and warmth. As both an artist and content creator, Von Eric uses various mediums, from traditional visual arts to digital content, to share his vision with a broad audience across different platforms.

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Home & Texture recently sat down with the artist to discuss his background, art, and the meaning behind his work and legacy.

Home & Texture: What or who inspires your artwork?

Fritz Von Eric: Well, if I had to pin down what inspires my artwork, I’d say it’s the beautiful chaos of the city. New York has this magical way of wrapping you in its energy—one moment you’re sipping coffee at a corner café, and the next, you’re sketching on the subway, headphones on, completely immersed. I’m constantly inspired by the people I see, the snippets of conversations I overhear, and, of course, the undeniable rhythm of the fashion scene. Black beauty, in particular, radiates in this city, and I often find myself capturing that essence, translating it into something tangible. It’s like the city itself becomes the muse, and I’m just here to tell its story through my art.

H&T: When it comes to Black artists, what is a common misconception you’d like to dispel?

FVE: Here’s the thing: my figures are often Black simply because I’m Black, and growing up, I didn’t see enough reflections of myself in the art world. I remember flipping through Vogue and marveling at those avant-garde spreads by Steven Meisel and Juergen Teller, but where were the Black women? It was like fashion’s most captivating moments had somehow skipped over us. So, when I create, it’s from a place of what I want to see—a world where beauty, fantasy, and playfulness exist without the weight of an agenda. It’s about telling a story, yes, but not always a political one. Sometimes, it’s just about the freedom to dream.

H&T: What other artists do you draw inspiration from?

FVE: There are so many artists who inspire me, especially in this digital age where discovering fresh talent is just a scroll away. Over the years, I’ve come across quite a few that keep my creative fire burning. I’m obsessed with Gabriel Moses, Hugh Hayden, Mìa Lee, Ashton Kellam-Holmes, Diana Carla Rowe, and Dacio Demo—to name a few. These Black artists are making waves, each with their own unique style — and I find myself in awe of the ways they push boundaries and redefine what Black art can look like. It’s like watching a new narrative unfold, and it’s one I’m excited to be a part of.

H&T: Where do you see your work in the coming years?

FVE: It’s hard to say exactly where my work will go, but one thing’s for sure—I’m a storyteller at heart. I’d love to keep telling stories, whether through art direction for some of my favorite brands or even crossing over into film and animation. The idea of bringing my visions to life in new mediums really excites me. But honestly, the sky is the limit. For now, I’m just taking it one day at a time, embracing the process, and staying open to wherever the creative journey takes me next.

H&T: There’s no doubt that you will be remembered as one of the greatest artists of our time. How do you want your work remembered?

FVE: Oh wow, that’s probably the highest compliment I’ve ever received. If I’m lucky enough to be remembered, I want it to be for being unapologetically myself—and for being kind. So much of what I do is instinctual, intuitive. Some of the best things that have happened in my career were happy accidents, but I think they happened because I trusted my gut. I believe people connect with that the honesty in it. At the end of the day, I want my work to feel like a reflection of living authentically, embracing the messy, beautiful process of being human, and encouraging others to do the same.

H&T: Is there any advice you can give to emerging artists?

FVE: Stay true to yourself, and be brave enough to put yourself out there. Trust me, there’s not a day that goes by where I don’t wrestle with imposter syndrome, but if you can push past that intimidating feeling, you’ll realize the world is your oyster. The key is to embrace the discomfort and the fear and move forward anyway. Your voice is unique, and that’s exactly what the world needs—your perspective, your truth. So, take the leap, and don’t be afraid to take up space.

This article has been edited and condensed for length and clarity.

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