Today we’d like to introduce you to Dylon Thomas Burns

Dylon Thomas, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?

I was lucky to grow up in a time and place that encouraged creativity and exploration. My family and community were incredibly supportive, and the absence of the internet gave me the space to experience life directly and fully. As a child, I was surrounded by art—paintings that adorned the walls of my home and other great walls and minds.

Although I lived in a different time than the artists I admired, I felt as though their work was part of a conversation—one I could hear and, more importantly, one I wanted to join. I saw their art not as relics of fame or history, but as an ongoing dialogue that I could add to. That’s where it all started for me. I realized that creating wasn’t just about expression; it was about becoming part of something larger, continuing the stories they left off on.

Over time, this desire to be part of that dialogue evolved into my life’s work. Whether I was experimenting on my own or learning from the guidance of mentors, I pursued art as a way to connect with others and make sense of the world. Today, it’s not only my passion but my livelihood, blending creativity with storytelling to create meaningful work for others.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?

It hasn’t always been a smooth road, at all.. gratitude helps understand …but I’ve realized that art is something I’ll always make—whether it’s easy or not. Over time, I found a way to turn that inevitability into a life where I can keep the lights on and create. I know how to make it work because I kept going, no matter what.

We all have our strife and struggles at times, but I’ve made it through each one by holding onto what’s important to me: art, light, and the people who support me. I’ve been alone, I’ve felt alone, but I’ve also come to understand that I never truly was. Whether it was the streets, moments of uncertainty, or the spaces in between, I realized it’s how you feel that matters—and how you stay authentic to yourself.

I was fortunate to have incredible mentors like Carl Nicholas Titolo and Kyu Nam Han, who not only guided me in developing my skills but also taught me to think critically about my work and embrace discipline. Their influence showed me the importance of balancing technique with authenticity and staying true to my artistic voice.

The struggle has happened and may happen again, but growth is inevitable. What I’ve learned is that coupling discipline with doing what you love can reveal unexpected, open doors. It’s about showing up, staying true, and finding your way through.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?

I specialize in creating custom large-scale murals and artworks for commercial and residential spaces. My work combines layers of storytelling with a focus on detail, symbolism, and emotional connection.

One project I’m especially proud of is a mural commemorating the cultural and historical significance of Coventry, the legendary rock club in Queens where world-famous bands like KISS, the New York Dolls, and the Ramones got their start. Back in the 1970s, Coventry not only provided a platform for up-and-coming artists but became a rite of passage for indie bands.

Using a variety of spray paints, oil, and wheatpaste, I captured the spirit of the club, the era, and the community on the outside wall of its original venue. The 25×12-foot piece features performance posters, graffiti, and snapshots of the vibrant life of the neighborhood. I worked on it with fellow artist and curator Dylan Bauver and musician Charlie Sub, the frontman of Charlie Sub & Sound Dogs and the son of Coventry club founder Paul Sub. The unveiling coincided with the presentation of the prestigious Queensmark Award honoring Coventry’s significance.

What sets me apart is my ability to create work that not only captures a moment but continues a dialogue—allowing viewers to connect with the story in their own way.

We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?

I don’t pick favorites, just like I don’t pick ice cream flavors—it’s about the present space to experience and how it shapes you. That said, one memory I often recall is sitting on my dad’s lap when I was three years old, watching him draw a motorcycle with a Ticonderoga #2 pencil. I was amazed by what he created, but he casually said, “I don’t know how to draw.” It stuck with me—that sense of wonder at what’s possible, even when we don’t think we know how.

Another memory is walking past Van Gogh’s Sunflowers print over and over. Something about it stayed with me, as if it was quietly inviting me into its world.

Childhood is precious, but we often think it’s tied to just one standout moment. For me, the key has been keeping that inner child alive and holding on to all those experiences that shaped him. As adults, we can lose that sense of wonder and play, and when we do, something important slips away. The real challenge is staying connected to that part of ourselves—to the amazement and curiosity we felt as kids—and carrying it forward into the present.

Pricing:

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Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylonthomasburns/

Image Credits

Images by Jessyka Graf and Dylon Thomas Burns