May 23rd, 2017
You first met Che in Rochester works for actor Che Holloway, an impromptu interview and amble through the Neighborhood of the Arts.
An aspiring and successful actor, Che is deeply immersed in the Rochester cultural scene. So much so, we’ve named him Che of The Town!
Exclusively for Talker, Che has solicited and is conducting interviews from about 60 Rochestarians working in a diversity of creative fields.
For the full series, see Che of The Town: Interviews
Che is a proud graduate of the School of the Art and has featured many SOTA alums, including Britton Bradford, Kayoz Fortune, Ajani Jeffries, Marguerite Frarey, Willie “El Mongoose” Monroe Jr., Willis Ajamu Brooks , James Kegler, Taye Diggs, Evalyn Gleason, Adrian DiMatteo, Biz LaChance and Saadiq Muhammad and Aleigha Spinks.
Che also highlighted four members of the SOTA theater department: Lorrie Dewey, Michelle Accorso Sapere, Ed Myers and Luke Fellows, as well as Arts Center Director Adele Fico.
Introducing Sage Cruz Field; An Innovative Artist and Stylist
In this highlight we turn our attention to Sage Cruz Field a recognizable stylist and artist around the city. What stands out about Sage is his individuality and willingness to gain more knowledge in his crafts.
Tell us a little about yourself, where your from, grew up, what H.S./College you attended etc.
I grew up in Rochester N.Y. most of my life besides living in Ithaca for 3 years while I was in middle school. While there I went to an amazing alternative public school called Lehman Alternative Community School. When I came back I began my High School career at School of the Arts. While there my focus was Visual Arts. Once I graduated, I continued my art career at Syracuse University, where I practiced painting, printmaking, photography and video. I graduated in 2015!
What inspired you to be an artist/entertainer? Early experiences worth sharing?
Growing up with parents that practiced and appreciated art had a great impact on me. Playing various instruments as a kid definitely strengthened me as an artist and videographer. Seeing my father paint huge murals for his community and culture was a big inspiration. Also have to shout out Ms Bond who introduced me and My peers to video and editing.
Talk about a time where you have faced adversity/conflict and have triumphed.
One of the most trying times for me so far was when my father had an aneurism and stroke while I was in High School. He was one of my greatest motivators and it was horrifying to see him so damaged. Thankfully we both triumphed this situation and grew from the experience. While in college I made a piece about this, which was difficult and relieving at the same time.
What do you believe sets you apart from other artists/entertainers?
I am grateful to have so many talents in the field of the visual arts. Most other artists I come across focus on just one area, which definitely sets me apart. At times it is hard bounce back and forth from the canvas to final cut to illustrator but it makes it all the more rewarding.
Do you have other interests or hobbies?
Apart from Art, Design and Media, music and skateboarding are my favorite things to do. I am grateful to work alongside so many awesome musicians with Goldn Rd and our videos. Skateboarding for me is the most rewarding and fun way to get places!
Any projects you have out or currently working on?
Currently I am painting commission dog portraits for dog owners and their families. These pieces are under the name SCF K9 and will soon be shown in the Brown Hound Memorial Art Gallery Restaurant. Prints of these are now available at Abode in the South Wedge. I am also creating my own separate pieces of art as well, mostly abstract. I also now work with Ajani Jeffries as the designer for Goldn Rd. We also create videos for musicians and local businesses, including food reviews through Thank You Rochester. I freelance graphic design work as well as paint custom jeans under SCF Jeans.
Where would you like to see yourself in 5 years?
In five years I would like a simplistic schedule with very valuable time commitments. I see myself even better at the skills in which I use today and with greater influence. I also will have had many more solo art shows and bigger clients!
What advice can you give to aspiring artists/entertainers?
Listening to your intuition and always continue learning are definitely important pieces of advice. Surround yourself with others that have similar goals and find a mentor!
How can we follow along in your journey? Social media?
Instagram and twitter : @sagecruzfield
Facebook: SCF K9
Behance: Sage Cruz field
SEE ALSO
Emerging artists coming of age in Rochester at the Corn Hill Arts Festival